Shakib-Mushfiq record partnership lifts Bangladesh

Sport Desk: Record breaking partnership by Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim lifted Bangladesh to 542 for 7 in the second day of the first of a two-match Test series against hosts New Zealand in Wellington.

 

Today’s eye catchy partnership by both broke the 281-run partnership recorded by Pakistan players Asif Iqbal and Javed Miandad 41 years ago.

 

The Tigers scored 542 for 7 in 136 overs with the 359-run partnership between Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim in fifth wicket, bringing a glory for Bangladesh cricket.

 

Shakib Al Hasan and skipper Mushfiqur Rahim smashed centuries to put Bangladesh in the driving seat in the second day of the first test.

 

All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan looked very aggressive and smashed double-century. He scored 217 off 276 balls hitting 31 boundaries before he was bowled by Neil Wagner.

 

Skipper Mushfiqur Rahim scored 159 off 260 balls hitting 23 boundaries and one over boundaries before he was caught by BJ Watling. Mominul Haque failed to add a single run to his first day’s 64.

 

Trent Boult put an end to the Bangladesh captain's heroics and Wagner then removed Shakib and Mehedi Hasan Miraz in quick succession as the hosts had some cheer just before the close of the day.

 

Bangladesh were on 542 for 7 when the umpires called stumps and the fans now have every right to dream of a first win of the tour.

 

Wagner has been the most successful bowler for New Zealand with three wickets, while Boult and Tim Southee both have two to their names.

 

Bangladesh start the day on 154 for 3 in 40.2 overs with Mominul Haque unbeaten on 64 while Shakib Al Hasan on 5.

 

In the first day of the first test, opener Tamim Iqbal scored 56 off only 48 balls hitting 11 boundaries. Mominul and Mahmudullah Riyad then combined for an 85-run third-wicket partnership either side of the second interruption that spilled over into the evening session before Mahmudullah chased a wide delivery and was caught off Neil Wagner.

 

risingbd/DHAKA/Jan 13, 2017/Yeasin/Shamim/Amirul