Bangladesh on Course for Big Lead as Shanto, Mushfiq Shine with the Bat

Bangladesh have taken firm control of the one-off Test against Afghanistan and are closing in on a commanding victory. At the end of the third day at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the Tigers held a massive 329-run lead over their opponents, putting themselves in a strong position to secure a win.

Building on their first-innings advantage, Bangladesh reached 223 for 5 in their second innings at stumps, thanks largely to captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and experienced batter Mushfiqur Rahim.

However, Bangladesh suffered an early setback in their second innings. Before the team total crossed 50, openers Shadman Islam (13), Tanzid Hasan Tamim (31) and Mominul Haque (7) had all returned to the pavilion, leaving the Tigers in deep trouble at 53 for 3.

With the team under pressure, Shanto and Mushfiq stepped up to stabilise the innings. The duo displayed patience and composure to put together an outstanding 159-run partnership for the fourth wicket, bringing Bangladesh back on track.

Mushfiqur Rahim was eventually dismissed after scoring a valuable 81 off 148 balls, including nine boundaries. Shortly afterwards, captain Shanto also departed after being bowled by Qais Ahmad. He top-scored for Bangladesh with 82 off 191 deliveries, striking five fours.

Yamin Ahmadzai provided some resistance for Afghanistan’s bowling attack late on the third day, claiming two wickets for 42 runs. Mohammad Saleem Safi, Zia-ur-Rehman and Qais Ahmad picked up one wicket each.

At stumps, Litton Das remained unbeaten on 5 off 13 balls, while Hasan Mahmud was not out on 1. With five wickets still in hand, Bangladesh will have the opportunity to extend their lead further on the fourth day and set Afghanistan an even more daunting target.