The first Test between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Dhaka has turned into a fascinating battle, and as things stand on the final day, Bangladesh have their hands firmly on the steering wheel.
At 166 for 4 in their second innings, Bangladesh lead by 193 runs. That may not look massive at first glance, but on a fifth-day pitch at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, even a target around 270 or 280 can feel much bigger than it appears on paper.
With captain Najmul Hossain Shanto still at the crease and plenty of overs left in the day, Bangladesh are now in a very strong position.
How the Match Reached This Point
Pakistan began the Test well by posting 386 in their first innings. It was a solid score and, at that stage, they would have felt confident about taking control.
Bangladesh, however, responded in impressive fashion.
Their batters showed patience and discipline to reach 413, earning a useful 27-run first-innings lead. In a close Test match, even a small advantage like that can become extremely valuable.
When Bangladesh came out to bat again, Pakistan struck twice early and briefly looked on top. But Test cricket often rewards teams that can absorb pressure, and Bangladesh did exactly that.
Najmul Hossain Shanto Leads from the Front
If one player has defined this Test so far, it is Najmul Hossain Shanto.
The Bangladesh captain had already scored a century in the first innings, and he followed it up with another composed knock in the second innings. At the latest update, he was unbeaten on 65 from 117 balls.
It was not a flashy innings, but it was exactly what the situation demanded.
Shanto left the ball well, defended with soft hands, and punished anything loose. He looked calm throughout, which is often the best quality a captain can show in a tense Test match.
For Bangladesh supporters, this has been a captain’s innings in the truest sense.
Mominul Haque Delivers Another Important Fifty
Mominul Haque once again proved why he remains one of Bangladesh’s most dependable Test batters.
He scored 56 and shared a 105-run partnership with Shanto. The stand changed the direction of the innings.
At a time when Pakistan were searching for quick wickets, Mominul soaked up pressure and played with confidence. His innings also marked his fifth consecutive Test fifty, a remarkable display of consistency.
He missed out on a century, but his contribution may prove just as valuable.
Mushfiqur Rahim Adds Useful Runs
Mushfiqur Rahim chipped in with 22.
It was a typical Mushfiqur innings: compact, determined, and full of intent. He looked comfortable before trying to loft Hasan Ali over mid-off and finding Shan Masood.
Although he did not go on to make a bigger score, his partnership with Shanto kept Bangladesh moving forward.
Litton Das is now at the crease and has the chance to add more crucial runs.
Hasan Ali Keeps Pakistan in the Fight
Among Pakistan’s bowlers, Hasan Ali has been the standout performer.
He bowled with excellent control and was rewarded with the wicket of Mushfiqur Rahim. His spell created pressure and prevented Bangladesh from scoring too freely.
On a pitch where patience is essential, Hasan has shown exactly the right approach.
Pakistan will hope he can strike again before Bangladesh push the lead beyond reach.
The Pitch Is Starting to Misbehave
The Dhaka surface has become increasingly challenging for batters.
There is variable bounce, occasional turn, and enough uncertainty to keep every batter alert. Some deliveries are staying low, while others are lifting unexpectedly.
That means Pakistan’s chase, whenever it begins, is unlikely to be straightforward.
Even if the target remains under 300, batting last on this surface will require great concentration.
What Score Will Bangladesh Aim For?
Bangladesh are likely targeting a lead of at least 280 to 320 runs.
That range would give their bowlers a realistic cushion while still leaving enough time to attempt a victory.
Given the current conditions, they may not need a huge target. The state of the pitch could make any fourth-innings chase extremely difficult.
The timing of the declaration will be one of the most important decisions of the match.
Can Pakistan Still Win?
Pakistan are not out of the contest.
They have experienced batters and enough quality to mount a chase if they start well. But the margin for error is now very small.
One or two quick wickets in the fourth innings could completely shift the pressure.
At this stage, Bangladesh appear to hold the advantage.
Final Thoughts
The Bangladesh vs Pakistan 1st Test 2026 has developed into an engrossing contest, and Bangladesh are now in a commanding position.
Najmul Hossain Shanto has once again shown maturity and leadership, while Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim have played important supporting roles.
Pakistan still have a chance, but they need wickets immediately and a disciplined batting effort later in the day.
With a deteriorating pitch and more than a session and a half left, this Test is set up for a memorable finish.