Bangladesh Seal 2-0 Series Win as Taijul and Murad Shine in Dhaka

Bangladesh wrapped up a commanding 217-run victory over Ireland on the final day of the second Test in Dhaka, securing a 2-0 series win. The hosts were made to work hard on the fifth day as Ireland, led by Curtis Campher’s remarkable resistance, battled for more than 59 overs before finally succumbing.

Campher produced an exceptional unbeaten 71 off 259 balls, holding firm even as wickets fell around him. His partnership with Gavin Hoey frustrated Bangladesh for over 31 overs, showcasing admirable grit. But left-arm spinner Hasan Murad broke the deadlock late in the day, dismissing Hoey and No. 11 Matthew Humphreys in successive deliveries to end Ireland’s fightback.

Murad and Taijul Islam claimed four wickets each, though the standout performance of the match belonged to Mushfiqur Rahim. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter marked his 100th Test with a polished century and added an unbeaten 53 in the second innings, capping a memorable match.

Taijul also reached a major milestone, completing 250 Test wickets to become only the sixth left-arm spinner to achieve the feat. Earlier in the game, he surpassed Shakib Al Hasan’s tally of 246 to become Bangladesh’s leading Test wicket-taker.

The Test was briefly interrupted by an earthquake on the third day, but play resumed without major disruption.

On the final morning, Campher continued to defend resolutely, while Jordan Neill added some counterattacking strokes, including a six off Murad. Neill was dropped on 23 by Litton Das before Mehidy Hasan Miraz beat his forward defense to hit the stumps. Campher reached his half-century with a straight six, maintaining Ireland’s hopes of forcing a draw.

Ireland resumed at 176 for 6 after losing key wickets on the fourth evening in spin-friendly conditions. Harry Tector top-scored with 50 in the first innings before holing out to a tumbling catch from Mushfiqur. Stephen Doheny, dropped three times, was eventually trapped lbw for 15 by Taijul.

Bangladesh earlier declared on 297 for 4 in the second innings, courtesy of fluent fifties from openers Shadman Islam and Mahmudul Hasan Joy, an 87 from Mominul Haque, and Mushfiqur’s unbeaten contribution.

With this win, Bangladesh capped off a dominant series marked by disciplined bowling, experienced batting, and significant personal milestones.