Pakistan pacer says the team was “a bit unlucky” despite Bangladesh reaching 301/4 on Day 1 in Mirpur

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Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas defended his team’s decision to bowl first after Bangladesh ended Day 1 of the opening Test in Mirpur on a commanding 301 for 4. Abbas admitted Pakistan were inconsistent in phases but insisted the visitors were also “a bit unlucky” throughout the day.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood opted to field first on a green-looking surface that appeared favourable for fast bowlers early on. The move initially worked perfectly as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali removed Bangladesh openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam inside the first hour.

However, Bangladesh recovered strongly as the pitch eased out during the day. Abbas explained that while there was visible grass on the wicket, the surface underneath remained dry, making batting easier once the new ball lost its movement. He described the Mirpur track as a “good cricketing wicket” rather than a pitch heavily tilted towards batters or bowlers.

Abbas felt Pakistan’s bowlers created several opportunities despite Bangladesh’s strong position at stumps. He pointed out that there were numerous plays and misses during the innings, but the team failed to convert enough chances into wickets. According to the pacer, Pakistan bowled well in patches but could not maintain consistency for long periods.

The experienced seamer was Pakistan’s most economical bowler in the opening session, conceding only 13 runs in his first eight overs. Although he did not get an early wicket, Abbas eventually dismissed Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto shortly after the batter completed a brilliant century. Abbas revealed he intentionally bowled an inswinger and was confident there was no inside edge despite the umpire initially rejecting the lbw appeal.

Pakistan also struggled with discipline during the day, conceding 32 extras including eight no-balls. Spinner Noman Ali overstepped during a crucial lbw appeal, while Abbas himself admitted he bowled two no-balls because of the extra effort required in demanding conditions.

Despite Bangladesh’s strong position, Abbas remained optimistic about Pakistan’s chances in the Test. He said the bowlers would return on Day 2 aiming to strike early and restrict Bangladesh’s first-innings total as quickly as possible.