Early wickets give Ireland a solid edge after Day One in Dhaka

In their first Test match in almost four years, Ireland posted a total of 214 runs on the opening day against Bangladesh in Dhaka. The visitors, who last played a Test match in 2019, found themselves losing wickets regularly but were lifted by an impressive 50-run knock from debutant Harry Tector.

Ireland, who featured six debutants, including Ben White, endured a tough time at the crease, with Bangladesh’s Taijul Islam claiming five wickets for 58 runs, dismissing Ireland in the 78th over. Despite this, Tector’s steady batting and a crucial 74-run partnership with Curtis Campher (34) were key moments of the innings.

Bangladesh, in reply, faced just 10 overs before stumps and lost both their openers. Mark Adair struck early in his first over, dismissing Najmul Shanto, while Andy McBrine took the final wicket of the day, sending Tamim Iqbal back to the pavilion. At the close of play, Bangladesh were 34 for 2, still trailing by 180 runs.

After winning the toss, Ireland opted to bat but struggled with the absence of Paul Stirling. The opening pair of James McCollum and Murray Commins did not stay long, while captain Andy Balbirnie was dismissed lbw for 16. Tector and Campher, however, fought back to steady the ship, with Tector marking his debut with a half-century before he was dismissed for 50 by Mehidy Hasan Miraz.

The lower order could not build much on the total, with PJ Moor and Campher both falling before Lorcan Tucker’s 37 and Mark Adair’s quickfire 32 lifted the team past 200. Ireland then responded strongly with the ball, reducing Bangladesh to 34 for 2 by the close. Adair struck early, and McBrine’s timely wicket left Bangladesh in a difficult position.

With day two looming, Ireland will be keen to press their advantage and add pressure on the hosts.