Bangladesh reached 119 for no loss while chasing India-set a 513-run target, as openers Najmul Hossain Shanto and Zakir Hasan are showing a bit of hope at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium here today.

Shanto was batting on 64 with Zakir on 55 at the first interval of the day. Bangladesh still need 394 runs to win the first Test.

Debutant Zakir impressed much as he dealt with the Indian bowlers astutely to bring up his maiden half-century. The wicket also favoured the duo, offering nothing for the bowlers so far.

After resuming the day at 42-0, the duo reached a century partnership without any trouble.

Shanto raised his third Test fifty off 108 balls, nudging off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin for a single through off-side and grew with confidence as he unleashed some powerful shots to keep India at bay.

Zakir reached his maiden fifty soon after, brining it off 101, pushing left-arm spinner Axar Patel through mid-on for a single.

Bangladesh were bowled out for 150 in its first innings, in reply to India's 404. India didn't enforce follow-on and declared second innings at 258-2 to set Bangladesh a record target to chase.

BDST: 1241 HRS, Dec 17, 2022
SMS