Bangladesh secured a commanding victory in Sylhet, defeating Ireland by an innings and 47 runs on the fourth day of the opening Test. The moment of triumph arrived when Taijul Islam’s delivery brushed Barry McCarthy’s bat and nestled safely in Liton Das’s gloves. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto took the review in the dying seconds of the timer—and the giant stadium screen flashed ‘OUT’, confirming Bangladesh’s dominance.
With a massive first-innings total of 587 for 8 declared and a 301-run lead, Bangladesh had virtually sealed the contest early. Ireland’s collapse to 5 wickets down late on the third evening made the task even simpler. Yet the final day turned out dramatic, with missed chances, overturned decisions, and spirited resistance from the Irish lower order.
Taijul appeared to strike in the day’s third ball, but DRS overturned the decision. Soon after, Mehidy Hasan Miraz dropped a catch that struck captain Najmul on the hand, briefly raising concerns. McBrine and Humphreys added 31 crucial runs, followed by a gritty 54-run stand between McCarthy and Neill—delaying the inevitable.
Andy McBrine’s determined 52 briefly hinted at the possibility of avoiding an innings defeat, but debutant Hasan Murad combined with pacer Nahid Rana to end that resistance. The spin duo of Taijul and Murad shared seven wickets in the second innings, sealing Bangladesh’s fourth innings-victory in Test history.
Throughout the match, Ireland struggled to challenge Bangladesh’s control. The hosts dominated with both bat and ball: Mahmudul Hasan’s majestic 171, Shanto’s captaincy century, and all top-four batters passing 80 for the first time in Bangladesh’s Test history. Debutant Murad also impressed with his sharp turn and control.
The win puts Bangladesh 1–0 ahead in the two-match Test series. The second Test begins on 19 November in Mirpur.
