Shadman Islam stays on 99 as bad light stops play in Mirpur

Bangladesh opener Shadman Islam remained on 99 not out when bad light ended the first day of the opening Test against the West Indies in Mirpur. The hosts finished the day's play at 213-3 after 74 overs, leaving the left-hander one run short of his third Test century.

Shadman faced 219 deliveries and struck 10 fours. Litton Das was at the other end on 10 not out when the umpires called off the session. This match marks the start of a two-game series between the two sides.

Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Salahuddin noted that the dressing room felt the pressure as the innings progressed. "It was nerve-racking even for us, at the end of the day, the whole team was nervous because everyone wanted him to get to his hundred," he said. Salahuddin observed that Shadman has played around 30 Tests with only two centuries to his name, adding that the number should have been higher.

The West Indies secured early wickets to set the tone. Tanzid Hasan edged Jayden Seales to second slip for nine. Mominul Haque contributed 28 runs before falling to Jomel Warrican's left-arm spin. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto was trapped leg before wicket for 19 shortly after lunch.

Shadman reached 50 from 95 balls and built an 88-run partnership with Towhid Hridoy. Hridoy, who replaced the injured Mushfiqur Rahim, retired hurt on 42 after suffering cramps while approaching his first Test fifty. He was assisted off the field. Play was interrupted for an hour due to poor lighting before the final call.

Jomel Warrican led the West Indies attack with figures of 2-33. He stated that his team maintained control throughout the day. "Ideally, I would want one more wicket, but we have control of the game. The game never got away from us," he said. Warrican emphasized the discipline of the bowling unit, noting they aimed for at least one or two more wickets.

The West Indies will bat second when play resumes on Thursday. Shadman will return to the crease with the score at 213-3.