Post by : Maya Rahman

In an extraordinary achievement, Bangladesh's left-arm spinner Taijul Islam has now claimed the title of the top wicket-taker for his nation in Test cricket. This landmark moment occurred during the second Test match against Ireland at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, where Taijul eclipsed the previous record held by acclaimed all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who finished with 246 wickets.

Taijul's historic milestone was marked by the dismissal of Ireland's opener Andrew Balbirnie in the sixth over of the second innings. With this wicket, he secured a total of 248 wickets in just 57 matches and 102 innings. The 28-year-old spinner has also achieved 17 five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket match hauls throughout his Test career, underscoring his remarkable skill and consistency at the international level. In comparison, Shakib accumulated his 246 wickets over 71 matches and 121 innings, including 19 five-fers and two ten-fers.

This milestone has positioned Taijul at the pinnacle of Bangladesh's distinguished list of Test bowlers. Following closely behind is Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who ranks third with 209 wickets from 56 matches and 98 innings, and has excelled with 13 five-wicket hauls and three ten-wicket match hauls. Former spinner Mohammad Rafique holds the fourth position with 100 wickets in 33 Tests, while former captain Mashrafe Mortaza is fifth with 78 wickets across 36 matches.

Regarding the match, Bangladesh has established a commanding lead. After winning the toss, they set a monumental target of 476 runs by batting first. Wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim, marking his 100th Test, scored a solid 106 runs off 214 balls, while Litton Das added an aggressive 128 runs from 192 balls, steering the team to a robust total.

For Ireland, Andy McBrine emerged as the standout bowler in the first innings, claiming six wickets for 109 runs in 33.1 overs. Others contributing were Matthew Humphreys (2/151) and Gavin Hoey (2/115). Ireland's innings concluded at 265 runs, trailing Bangladesh by 211 runs, with Taijul contributing significantly by taking four wickets at the cost of 76 runs in 35.3 overs.

Bangladesh declared their second innings at 297 for 4, creating a formidable target of 507 runs for Ireland. The Bangladeshi batsmen displayed excellent form, featuring Mominul Haque with 87 runs, Shadman Islam with 78, and opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy scoring 60 runs.

At the latest update, Ireland is in a precarious situation at 112 for 3 in 30.1 overs, needing 397 runs to clinch victory on Day 4. Bangladesh currently leads the two-match Test series 1-0 after a notable innings and 47-run victory in the first Test at Sylhet.

Taijul’s record-breaking achievement has drawn widespread admiration from fans and cricket analysts alike. His consistent contributions with the ball have played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s evolution into a competitive Test team. With several more years ahead in his playing career, there exists a significant opportunity for Taijul to expand his lead and deepen his legacy as one of Bangladesh's cricket legends.

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