Bangladesh totally crushed Ireland in the first Test at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, winning by an innings and 47 runs. The Bangladesh team batted really well and bowled great, which kept Ireland down the whole time.
Mahmudul Hasan Joy really held the innings together, scoring a great 171, and Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto hit a cool century, too. They helped Bangladesh get to a huge 587 for eight before they stopped batting, which put Ireland in trouble right away. Joy played really well, mixing attack with smart defending, and Shanto kept things steady to help turn the game into a massive score.
In Ireland’s first turn to bat, Andy McBrine and Paul Stirling tried to recover, scoring 52 and 43 runs. But Hasan Murad was the best bowler in his first game, taking four wickets for 60 runs. The spinners, Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, got the other wickets, keeping Ireland’s batting under pressure. Ireland got all out with only 286, giving Bangladesh a big lead.
By the fourth day, Bangladesh only needed five more wickets to win. Ireland started okay, with McBrine and Captain Andrew Balbirnie trying not to lose too badly and making a 66-run partnership. Balbirnie’s smart shots and McBrine’s challenging play made it seem like they might put up a fight. But then Balbirnie got out all of a sudden, which gave Bangladesh a chance. McBrine got out soon after lunch. Even though Jordan Neill and Barry McCarthy scored some quick runs, Bangladesh’s bowlers ended the game strong. Ireland got bowled out for 254 in their second innings, giving Bangladesh a big innings win.
Key Points from the Match:
- Bangladesh Batting Brilliance: Joy 171 and Shanto 100 ensured a massive total of 587/8 declared.
- Bowling Excellence: Hasan Murad (4-60), Taijul Islam (3 wickets), and Mehidy Hasan Miraz dismantled the Irish batting line-up.
- Ireland’s Fight: Andy McBrine’s resilience (52 in the second innings) and Balbirnie’s 38 runs showed glimpses of resistance.
- Debut Impact: Hasan Murad made a significant mark on his debut, showing composure and wicket-taking ability.
- Series Advantage: Bangladesh now leads the two-Test series 1-0, boosting confidence ahead of the next match.
This win highlighted Bangladesh’s growing maturity in Test cricket, showcasing depth in both batting and bowling. The combination of experienced players and emerging talent ensured they dominated the game in all departments. Mahmudul Hasan Joy was deservedly named Player of the Match for his match-defining innings.
Brief Scores:
- Bangladesh: 587/8 decl. (Mahmudul Hasan Joy 171, Najmul Shanto 100; Matthew Humphreys 5-170)
- Ireland 1st innings: 286 (Andy McBrine 52, Paul Stirling 43; Hasan Murad 4-60)
- Ireland 2nd innings: 254 (Andy McBrine 52; Taijul Islam 3-45)
- Result: Bangladesh won by an innings and 47 runs.