Zakir Hasan Becomes Bangladesh’s First Centurion on Debut in Last 10 Years

Zakir Hasan looked in good touch against the Indian bowlers (Source: Associated Press)

Young Bangladesh cricketer Zakir Hasan etched his name in the record books as he smashed his maiden Test century in the second innings of his debut Test here at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram on Saturday (December 17).

Against a quality bowling attack of the Indian team, the left-handed opening batter notched up a memorable century off 219 deliveries in the fourth innings of the match. 

Playing in his first-ever Test match, Zakir showed great application in his defense and looked pretty solid during his long stay at the crease. To reach the three-figure mark, he got a boundary off Axar Patel towards fine leg to become the fourth Bangladeshi cricketer to slam a century on his Test debut.

He also became the first opener from Bangladesh to slam a ton on his Test debut. As soon as he reached the landmark, he was outfoxed by Ravichandran Ashwin to end his stay at the crease. Hasan's knock ended on 100 off 224 balls and his knock was laced with 13 fours and a six. Before him, Aminul Islam, Mohammad Ashraful, and Abul Hasan achieved this remarkable feat on their debut in Test cricket.

Despite Zakir's fighting century, Bangladesh are struggling in the first Test. At the end of the day's play, the hosts were reduced to 272/6. The Shakib Al Hasan-led team still needs 241 runs for a monumental victory in the first Test, while India are only wickets away to take the 1-0 lead in the series.

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