Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s clinical ninth Test century dominated the opening day of the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, guiding Bangladesh to a solid 301-4 at stumps against Pakistan on Friday.

Shanto’s 101 anchored a massive 170-run third-wicket partnership with Mominul Haque, as the duo effectively neutralized Pakistan’s pace-heavy attack throughout a humid afternoon.

The captain reached his milestone by drilling a Mohammad Abbas half-volley through the covers for four, marking his maiden Test century against Pakistan.

His 130-ball innings, featuring 12 boundaries and two sixes, eventually concluded just before tea when Abbas trapped him leg-before.

Although the on-field umpire initially turned down the appeal, Pakistan successfully reviewed the decision to find the ball hitting the off-stump.

Mominul Haque maintained the momentum following Shanto’s exit but unfortunately fell in the "nervous nineties" for 91.

Attempting to parry a quicker delivery from spinner Noman Ali, Mominul was trapped on the back foot; a review confirmed the ball was hitting middle-and-leg.

Despite these late wickets, veteran Mushfiqur Rahim ensured the hosts kept the upper hand.

Mushfiqur remained unbeaten on 48, displaying his trademark composure to guide Bangladesh past the 300-run mark.

He will resume the second day on Saturday morning alongside Litton Das, who remains not out on 8.

Pakistan’s bowlers toiled for most of the day on a surface that offered minimal lateral movement or turn.

Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Abbas, Hasan Ali, and Noman Ali each claimed a single wicket, but the visitors struggled to make consistent inroads against a disciplined Bangladeshi top order.

With six wickets in hand and the experienced Mushfiqur nearing a half-century, Bangladesh will aim to post a massive first-innings total on day two to bat Pakistan out of the game.