New Delhi, Nov. 12 -- Mahmudul Hasan Joy made headlines on return as his half century put Bangladesh in driver's seat against Ireland on the second day of the ongoing first Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. After Ireland were bowled out for 286 in the first innings, it was the opening partnership between Mahmudul Hasan and Shadman Islam that laid the foundation for Bangladesh in the first innings.

The opening pair put on 168 runs, which is also the fourth-highest for Bangladesh for the first wicket. The first belong to Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes. On a wicket where the ball is coming on to the bat easily, both Mahmudul Hasan and Shadman didn't had any problems against an Irish attack that lacked threat.

In f...