Critics who judge after just one match don’t understand the game, says Taijul
His performance was a sharp contrast to his previous outing, and after his impressive return, he was quick to address the criticism he had faced.
Bangladesh's Taijul Islam fired back at his critics after taking a remarkable 5 wickets for 60 runs on the opening day of the second Test against Zimbabwe, helping his side regain control of the match.
Zimbabwe had made a solid start, ending the second session on 162/2, thanks to a strong partnership between Nick Welch and Sean Williams, who put together 90 runs for the third wicket. However, the match took a turn when Welch retired hurt due to injury and the extreme heat, leaving Zimbabwe vulnerable to Bangladesh's bowling attack.
After the break, Taijul came into his own, spinning through the Zimbabwean middle and lower order. He claimed the key wickets of Williams, Wellington Masakadza, and Richard Ngarava in quick succession, as Zimbabwe lost 7 wickets for just 50 runs. Taijul's spell ensured Bangladesh had the upper hand at the end of the first day, with Zimbabwe finishing on 227/9.
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Having struggled in the previous Test in Sylhet, where he took only two wickets across both innings, Taijul was back to his best in Chattogram. His performance was a sharp contrast to his previous outing, and after his impressive return, he was quick to address the criticism he had faced.
Reflecting on the criticism, Taijul said, "I think after playing so many Tests, those who criticise me after just one match, I don't think they understand the game."
He also spoke about his return to form: "I'm definitely satisfied with my performance today. As a player, when you have played 50 Tests, having a good game after struggling in the last match feels very rewarding. The most important thing is that I was able to help the team."
Taijul's crucial spell, including his five-wicket haul, brought Bangladesh back into the game. Zimbabwe had looked comfortable at 177/2, but Taijul's timely breakthroughs put the visitors on the back foot. His spell was a key factor in the day's play, and his performance helped Bangladesh push for a much-needed victory to level the series.
