Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Salahuddin has warned that the first Test against West Indies could take an unpredictable turn, despite the hosts ending the opening day in a relatively strong position at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. Bangladesh reached 213 for three after 74 overs on Wednesday, with opener Shadman Islam nearing a century on 99 not out and Litton Das unbeaten on 10 when bad light brought play to an early close.
Salahuddin acknowledged that the pitch had offered assistance to the bowlers, with the West Indies attack exploiting early seam movement and uneven bounce to put pressure on the home side’s batters. Speaking after the day’s play, the batting coach said the surface could continue to challenge both teams, particularly if the bowlers maintained their discipline and exploited the available conditions.
He admitted that Bangladesh’s top order could have handled the opening phase more effectively but was satisfied with the team’s recovery during the final session. The hosts had lost Tanzid Tamim early before captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and experienced batter Mominul Haque were dismissed after making starts. Towhid Hridoy also faced difficulties after suffering cramps in the hot conditions.
Despite those setbacks, Shadman helped Bangladesh regain control and finish the day with three wickets down. Salahuddin cautioned, however, that the match remained finely poised and that the second day could prove decisive in shaping the contest. He stressed that Bangladesh’s approach in the opening session on Thursday would be particularly important, as both sides look to strengthen their positions.
The batting coach also expressed optimism about Hridoy’s recovery, saying he expected the batter to be fit enough to resume batting on the second day. Salahuddin believes the match has a strong chance of producing a result, with the outcome likely to depend on how both teams begin the next day and respond to the conditions. With Shadman just one run away from his century and Bangladesh looking to build a substantial first-innings total, the hosts will aim to capitalise on their position when play resumes.
