Despite being one of Bangladesh’s most regular performers in Tests, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam is frequently overshadowed by Shakib Al Hasan and, at times, Mehedi Hasan Miraz.
However, the seasoned spinner stole the show in Bangladesh’s first Test victory over New Zealand, taking 10 wickets in the game, including a six-wicket haul in the second innings.
Taijul was lauded by head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, who noted the influence of the team’s former spin coach Rangana Herath on the left-arm spinner. Herath’s two-and-a-half-year stint with the Bangladesh Cricket Board came to an end following the first Test in Sylhet.
“He’s had a lot of tactical work done with him by Rangana Herath.” He set up some of the batters similarly to (Herath). “I believe he will serve Bangladesh cricket for a long time,” Hathurusingha said ahead of the second Test in Mirpur on Tuesday.
Taijul, the Tigers’ second-highest wicket-taker in Tests with 187 scalps, must play a different role when Shakib is there. In Shakib’s absence, the 31-year-old has taken over as the leader of Bangladesh’s spin unit.
“When he does well, you all talk about him. We also talk about him a lot on the inside. He is quite meticulous in his training, and he is very specific in how he wants to prepare. He is a mentally strong individual. He remains unnoticed since he plays behind a world-class talent. Taijul is always second fiddle to Shakib in most games. His track record is outstanding. He has around 200 wickets to his name. He is really consistent. “He showed great maturity in this Test match,” stated the Sri Lankan coach.