Mushfiqur supports Shanto’s bid for maiden double century

Veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim has thrown his full support behind skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto as he closes in on a maiden double century, following a commanding partnership that put Bangladesh in control on Day 1 of the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Tuesday.

Shanto finished the day unbeaten on 136, while Mushfiqur was not out on 105, with Bangladesh reaching 292 for 3 at stumps. The pair resurrected the innings after an early wobble, stitching together an unbroken 247-run stand.

"Shanto hasn't got a double century in Tests yet, so why not go for it now?" Mushfiqur said after play.
"Be it 200 or 250 — whatever he can manage — it’ll be a huge boost for us."

This was Shanto’s sixth Test century and his second against Sri Lanka, compiled from 202 deliveries with remarkable poise, especially after Bangladesh slumped to 45 for 3 in the morning.

Mushfiqur, who notched his 12th Test ton and fourth versus Sri Lanka, lauded Shanto's temperament and shot selection.

“He had a big hundred in Sri Lanka previously too, but I’d rate this one very highly. The way he controlled the innings, not offering a single chance — this will be a key knock for the batters who follow.”

Earlier, after winning the toss and opting to bat, Bangladesh suffered early setbacks. Anamul Haque Bijoy departed for a duck, while debutant Tharindu Rathnayake removed Shadman Islam (14) and Mominul Haque (29) in quick succession.

From there, Shanto and Mushfiqur took charge, steadying the innings and steadily shifting momentum through the afternoon and evening, leaving Bangladesh firmly in command at the close.