Afghanistan’s Nijat Masood Joins Exclusive Club with First-Ball Wicket in Test Cricket

Mirpur: In a momentous achievement, Afghanistan’s fast bowler, Nijat Masood, etched his name in Test cricket history by becoming the seventh bowler ever to take a wicket with his first delivery. This remarkable feat occurred during the opening day of the one-off Test match against Bangladesh in Mirpur. Masood swiftly dismissed Bangladesh opener Zakir Hasan for a mere one run in the second over of the match, and his team’s successful review confirmed the dismissal.

Despite this early setback, Bangladesh managed to mount a strong recovery throughout the day. Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mahmudul Joy led the resurgence with an outstanding 110-run unbeaten partnership, propelling Bangladesh to a score of 116/1 at the lunch break.

The decision to bowl first on an unusually green track was made by Afghanistan, who fielded two debutants in their lineup. The absence of experienced players Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan added pressure on the home team. However, it was debutant Masood who made an immediate impact by dismissing opener Zakir on his very first delivery. Unfortunately, Afghanistan’s overall bowling performance failed to impress beyond this breakthrough.

Shanto joined the crease early in the innings and showcased an aggressive batting style, taking the attack to the Afghan bowlers. Displaying elegant off drives, he accumulated boundaries and steadily built his innings. Shanto reached his fourth Test half-century in just 58 deliveries, significantly bolstering Bangladesh’s position. The Afghan bowlers struggled to find the right length, allowing their opponents to capitalize on loose deliveries.

Bowlers who have taken wicket with first ball in Test:

Richard Illingworth (1991)
Nilesh Kulkarni (1997)
Chamila Gamage (2002)
Nathan Lyon (2011)
Shaminda Eranga (2011)
Dane Piedt (2014)
Hardus Viljoen (2016)
Nijat Masood (2023)