Towhid Hridoy’s unbeaten 242 helped Bangladesh post 386 in their first innings, securing a 30-run advantage over West Indies on the third day of the Test at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Hridoy delivered an outstanding display of patience and resilience, facing 359 deliveries and striking 22 boundaries and 11 sixes. He reached his maiden Test double-century in only his third appearance in the format, recording the highest individual Test score at the Sylhet venue.
Bangladesh had faced an early setback after West Indies’ pace attack reduced them to 22 for two. Nayeem Hasan was dismissed for five runs, while Tanzid Hasan managed 16 before losing his wicket, putting the home side under considerable pressure.
Hridoy anchored Bangladesh’s innings and forged crucial partnerships with his fellow batters despite wickets falling regularly at the other end. Najmul Hossain Shanto contributed 18 runs, Mushfiqur Rahim added 34, while Litton Das managed just eight.
For West Indies, spinner Jomel Warrican was the leading wicket-taker with four scalps for 104 runs, while Jayden Seales picked up two wickets. Shamar Joseph, Justin Greaves and Roston Chase also got among the wickets.
With Bangladesh struggling at 184 for seven, Hridoy received vital support from Taijul Islam. The two put together a 117-run stand for the eighth wicket, with Taijul scoring 22 off 56 deliveries. Their partnership revived Bangladesh’s innings and helped narrow the deficit.
Hridoy brought up his maiden Test century off 171 balls before going on to complete his first double-century. In the process, he broke the previous record for the highest individual Test score at Sylhet and surpassed Mushfiqur Rahim’s Bangladesh record of 219 not out.
Bangladesh’s innings eventually came to an end at 386 in 111.5 overs, securing a 30-run lead in the first innings. Hridoy remained unbeaten on 242, having batted throughout the innings.
West Indies started their second innings shortly before stumps. Brandon King was batting on five, while Joshua Da Silva had scored two as the visitors reached seven without losing a wicket after four overs.
Poor light forced an early conclusion to the day’s proceedings, with West Indies still trailing Bangladesh by 23 runs and having all 10 wickets intact in their second innings.
The fourth day is set to play a crucial role in determining the direction of the match, as Bangladesh aim to strengthen their lead while West Indies look to turn the contest in their favour.
