No 10 batsman Abul Hasan hits century on debut to guide Bangladesh to 365-8 vs West Indies

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

KHULNA, Bangladesh — Bowler Abul Hasan hit an unbeaten century on his debut to propel Bangladesh to 365-8 at stumps Wednesday on the first day of the second test against West Indies.

Hasan reached 100 off just 108 balls to become only the second player to make a test century as a No. 10 batsman.

The 20-year-old Hasan shared a record ninth-wicket stand of 172 runs with fellow bowler Mahmudullah Riad (72 not out) after the home team looked to be wobbling on 193-8, having lost two quick wickets soon after tea.

“I was sent to bat with instructions to just stay at the crease and support Mahmudullah,” Hasan said. “But I found some bad balls at the start and seized the opportunity.”

Hasan’s century included 13 boundaries and three sixes at Sheikh Abu Naser Divisional Stadium.

“I will try to bat as long as possible tomorrow (Thursday), but I’ll be even happier if I can take wickets,” Hasan said. “I’m a bowler first.”

Bangladesh made a poor start by slumping to 88-3 in the first session, after captain Mushfiqur Rahim won the toss and elected to bat first in a stadium hosting its first ever cricket match.

Fidel Edwards, selected in place of Ravi Rampaul, made the early breakthrough by removing opener Nazimuddin (4) before fellow paceman Darren Sammy took the wickets of Tamim Iqbal (32) and Shahriar Nafees (26) in quick succession.

Rahim (32) and Nasir Hossain (52) built an 87-run partnership to raise hopes of a fightback before tea.

Edwards had the best bowling figures for the West Indies with 5-81.

08:06ET 21-11-12