The opening Test of the two-match series between Bangladesh and Ireland began at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. Ireland skipper Andrew Balbirnie won the toss and chose to bat first on a sunny morning, aiming to make early use of the pitch conditions before spin comes into play later in the day. Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, are looking to bounce back after a tough outing in their previous Test series against Sri Lanka.
Although the match is being played under Test match conditions, it is not part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–2027 cycle. This makes the contest a standalone bilateral series where both teams will focus on improving their Test records and gaining valuable experience.
Toss and Early Session Highlights
Ireland’s decision to bat first turned out to be a bold move, considering the early morning moisture in the Sylhet surface. However, the visiting side began confidently. At the first session mark, Ireland reached 74 for 1 in 19.5 overs, showing a solid start with disciplined batting and good shot selection.
Bangladesh opened the bowling attack with Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana, who looked to extract early swing. Although they created a few chances, the Irish top order remained composed, punishing loose deliveries and rotating the strike effectively.
The early wicket came courtesy of Taijul Islam, who broke the initial partnership and gave Bangladesh their first breakthrough. The session, however, largely belonged to the visitors.
Quick Summary
Detail |
Information |
|---|---|
Match |
Bangladesh vs Ireland, 1st Test, Day 1 |
Series |
Ireland Tour of Bangladesh 2025 |
Venue |
Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet |
Toss |
Ireland won the toss and elected to bat first |
Current Score |
Ireland 74/1 (19.5 overs) |
Captains |
Najmul Hossain Shanto (Bangladesh), Andrew Balbirnie (Ireland) |
World Test Championship Status |
Not part of WTC 2025-2027 cycle |
Start Date |
November 11, 2025 |
Official Site Link |
Playing XIs
Bangladesh:
Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (WK), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana, Hasan Murad
Ireland:
Andrew Balbirnie (C), Paul Stirling, Cade Carmichael, Harry Tector, Curtis Campher, Lorcan Tucker (WK), Jordan Neill, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Craig Young
Both teams have gone with a balanced combination of seamers and spinners, with Bangladesh relying heavily on their homegrown spin strength, while Ireland have banked on their pacers to exploit the new ball.
Match Context and Importance
For Bangladesh, this Test is an opportunity to reclaim confidence after their previous defeat in June 2025 against Sri Lanka, where they lost by an innings and 78 runs. The home side will look to dominate through their experienced spin trio Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, and Hasan Murad as the pitch starts to assist turn from the second day onward.
For Ireland, this series is a chance to continue their upward trajectory in red-ball cricket. The team tasted success earlier in 2025 when they defeated Zimbabwe by 63 runs in Bulawayo. Their performance in Sylhet will test their adaptability to Asian conditions, which have traditionally challenged visiting sides.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Sylhet International Cricket Stadium surface is expected to offer something for everyone. In the first session, seamers benefit from mild grass cover and morning moisture, while spinners gradually find assistance as the match progresses. Batting becomes more comfortable after the first hour but demands patience and precision.
Weather in Sylhet is clear, ensuring uninterrupted play. Temperatures around 28°C and low humidity levels have provided ideal Test match conditions.
Key Players to Watch
Bangladesh
- Najmul Hossain Shanto: As captain, his leadership will be tested in managing bowlers and field placements.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Known for exploiting turning tracks, Miraz’s role will be crucial in middle overs.
- Litton Das: His wicketkeeping and ability to score quickly can shift momentum.
Ireland
- Andrew Balbirnie: The captain’s decision to bat first shows intent. His form at the top is vital for Ireland.
- Harry Tector: Emerging as one of Ireland’s consistent performers across formats.
- Andy McBrine: Expected to play a dual role with bat and ball on a surface that could favor spin.
Day 1 Analysis and What Lies Ahead
With Ireland at 74 for 1 by the end of the first session, the game is evenly poised. The visiting side will aim to build partnerships and post a first-innings score above 300 to challenge Bangladesh’s batting lineup. The hosts, on the other hand, will look to pick early wickets in the second session to regain control.
As the pitch continues to dry, spinners will become increasingly influential. Bangladesh’s approach will likely shift toward aggressive field placements and spin-based attacks to push for breakthroughs before the close of play.
The second session could determine the tone of this Test, especially if Bangladesh manage to exploit Ireland’s middle order.
Upcoming Matches in the Series
- 1st Test: November 11–15, 2025 – Sylhet International Cricket Stadium
- 2nd Test: November 19–23, 2025 – Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka
- T20I Series: Begins November 28, 2025 – Matches scheduled in Chattogram and Dhaka
This series will also serve as important preparation for both teams ahead of their respective 2026 cricket calendars.
FAQs
1. Is the Bangladesh vs Ireland Test series part of the WTC 2025–2027?
No, this bilateral Test series is not included in the World Test Championship cycle.
2. Who won the toss in the 1st Test at Sylhet?
Ireland captain Andrew Balbirnie won the toss and chose to bat first.
3. What was the score at the end of the first session?
Ireland were 74 for 1 in 19.5 overs when the first session concluded.
4. Which players are leading both teams?
Najmul Hossain Shanto is captaining Bangladesh, while Andrew Balbirnie leads Ireland.
5. Where can I find live updates and the official scorecard?
Official updates and full scorecards are available on the Bangladesh Cricket Board website and leading cricket portals.
Final Note
The opening day of the Bangladesh vs Ireland 1st Test has begun with steady momentum for both sides. While Ireland’s top order looks solid, Bangladesh’s spin attack will soon come into play. The upcoming sessions are expected to shape the direction of this evenly balanced Test at Sylhet.
For More Information Click HERE
