May 16, 2026
SYLHET: A masterclass in counter-attacking cricket saw Litton Das hit a magnificent, timely century. He single-handedly rescues Bangladesh from the brink of disaster on Day 1 of the second Test against Pakistan at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Coming to the crease with his side reeling at a precarious 110 for 5, the stylish wicketkeeper-batter exhibited a flawless blend of grit and aggression. He brought up his hard-fought century off just 135 deliveries, punishing the Pakistan bowling attack with clean drives and authoritative pull shots to shift the momentum back to the hosts.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s decision to bowl first paid immediate dividends. Veteran paceman Mohammad Abbas struck on the very second ball of the morning, dismissing opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy for a duck. Bangladesh’s top order crumbled rapidly against a relentless bowling display led by Khurram Shahzad, who took 4 for 70. The visitors regularly broke through partnerships, leaving the Sylhet crowd stunned as the top and middle order folded ahead of the tea interval.
Unphased by the unfolding catastrophe around him, Litton anchor-dropped the innings. He initially navigated a hostile spell from Pakistan's seamers, showing impeccable judgment outside the off-stump. Once he settled, Litton accelerated brilliantly, finding able allies in lower-order partners like Taijul Islam (16) to slowly rebuild the total.
Litton showcased true tactical superiority during the final session, regularly clearing the infield and rotating the strike to bring up his milestone with a crisp boundary. His century effectively single-handedly dragged Bangladesh to a respectable 243 for 8. It stands out as one of his finest Test entries, nullifying Pakistan's early dominance and keeping Bangladesh’s hopes of a historic, back-to-back series sweep firmly alive.
With the match hanging on a knife-edge, Litton's masterclass ensures the hosts live to fight another day after a dramatic opening day.
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