Litton Das leads Bangladesh recovery with defiant ton against Pakistan

A scintillating century from Litton Das rescued Bangladesh from a dramatic collapse on the opening day of the second Test against Pakistan in Sylhet.

After opting to bowl, Pakistan tore through Bangladesh’s top order with Mohammad Abbas striking early to dismiss Mahmudul Hasan Joy for a duck, while Khurram Shahzad ripped through the middle order.

Bangladesh slipped deeper into trouble when captain Najmul Hossain Shanto departed for a patient 29 before Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz also fell in quick succession, leaving the hosts struggling at 116 for 6.

Amid testing, humid conditions, Litton steadied the innings with remarkable composure. The wicketkeeper-batter forged a vital lower-order stand with Taijul Islam, who battled for 16 before Sajid Khan finally broke the partnership.

Litton continued to counterattack even as wickets fell around him.

After reaching his half-century, he accelerated confidently, punishing anything loose and striking 13 boundaries against an unrelenting Pakistan attack.

The defining moment came in the 71st over when Litton drove Shahzad to the boundary to complete his sixth Test century before following it with a towering six over fine leg.

Bangladesh were batting in the final session on 254 for 8 after appearing destined for a far lower total earlier in the day.