Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
In a remarkable achievement, Bangladesh's left-arm spinner Taijul Islam has claimed the title of the country's highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. This notable milestone was reached during the second Test against Ireland held at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Taijul eclipsed the record previously held by legendary all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who had amassed 246 wickets.
The pivotal wicket that secured this feat was that of Ireland's opener Andrew Balbirnie, whom Taijul dismissed in the sixth over of the second innings. With this wicket, he raised his tally to 248 wickets over 57 matches and 102 innings. At the age of 28, Taijul has recorded 17 five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket match achievements, showcasing his prowess at the international stage. For context, Shakib obtained 246 wickets in 71 matches and 121 innings, which included 19 five-fers and two ten-fers.
Taijul has now ascended to the pinnacle of Bangladesh's list of Test bowlers, followed by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who stands as the third-highest wicket-taker with 209 wickets from 56 matches and 98 innings. Mehidy has 13 five-wicket hauls and three ten-wicket hauls to his credit. Former spinner Mohammad Rafique is fourth with 100 wickets in 33 Tests, and former captain Mashrafe Mortaza ranks fifth with 78 wickets in 36 matches.
In this ongoing Test, Bangladesh finds itself in a favorable position. After winning the toss, they opted to bat first, posting an impressive total of 476 runs. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim, in his 100th Test, scored a meticulous 106 off 214 deliveries. Litton Das also contributed significantly with an aggressive 128 runs from 192 balls, ensuring a robust score for the team.
On the bowling front for Ireland, Andy McBrine emerged as the top bowler in the first innings, capturing six wickets for 109 runs over 33.1 overs. Matthew Humphreys (2/151) and Gavin Hoey (2/115) shared the remaining wickets. Ireland was bowled out for 265 runs, handing Bangladesh a 211-run lead, with Taijul claiming four wickets for 76 runs in 35.3 overs.
Bangladesh later declared their second innings at 297-4, setting a hefty target of 507 runs for Ireland. The Bangladeshi batsmen exhibited fine form, with Mominul Haque scoring 87, Shadman Islam notching 78, and opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy contributing 60 runs.
As the match continues, Ireland is struggling at 112-3 in 30.1 overs, still needing 397 runs to clinch victory on Day 4. Bangladesh is currently ahead in the two-match Test series 1-0, following a commanding innings and 47-run win in the first Test at Sylhet.
Taijul’s remarkable achievement has garnered acclaim from fans and cricket analysts alike. His sustained impact with the ball has significantly contributed to Bangladesh’s emergence as a competitive team in Test cricket. With many years left in his cricketing journey, Taijul has the opportunity to further solidify his legacy as one of Bangladesh’s greats.
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