Ramiz praises hridoy as a priceless asset, says Pakistan must learn from Bangladesh’s resilience

Towhid Hridoy's brilliant century against India in the Champions Trophy has not only strengthened his position as Bangladesh's middle-order mainstay but also drawn praise from former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja, who described him as a "priceless asset."

Ramiz also urged Pakistan to learn from the resilience shown by Hridoy and Jaker Ali Onik after Bangladesh's top-order collapse.

Bangladesh's innings had looked doomed after they slumped to 35 for 5 under pressure from Mohammad Shami and Axar Patel. With the top order dismantled, even reaching 100 seemed unlikely. But Hridoy and Jaker defied the odds, stitching together a record 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket and steering Bangladesh to a respectable 228.

Ramiz was particularly impressed by Hridoy's temperament and shot-making ability under pressure. On his YouTube channel, he said, "Hridoy can play big shots, has an aggressive mindset, and runs well between the wickets. He brings a lot of energy. Bangladesh has discovered a priceless asset for their middle order. He proved today how dangerous he can be when set. Scoring a century in such a tough situation against a quality attack shows his potential. He has the skills, temperament, and reliability to go far."

While Hridoy battled cramps to complete his maiden ODI hundred, Jaker provided steady support with a patient 68 off 114 balls. Ramiz praised Jaker's contribution as well, calling the partnership a testament to determination and smart batting.

"From 35 for 5, it didn't seem like Bangladesh would even reach 100, let alone 228. But Hridoy and Jaker showed immense character. They not only rescued the team but did so against a top-class Indian bowling attack. This kind of resilience deserves praise," Ramiz added.

Ramiz also used the performance to highlight Pakistan's shortcomings. In their opening match against New Zealand, Pakistan struggled after Fakhar Zaman's injury unsettled the batting order. Despite Babar Azam's half-century, scored at a sluggish pace of 81 balls, the team never recovered and fell to a 60-run defeat.

With crucial fixtures against India on 23 february and Bangladesh on 27 february, Ramiz believes Pakistan must take inspiration from Hridoy and Jaker's fightback.

"Pakistan can learn a lot from how Hridoy and Jaker handled adversity. After losing five wickets for 35 runs, they didn't panic. They adapted, built a partnership, and turned the game around. That's what Pakistan lacked against New Zealand. Courage, determination, a clear plan, and the right approach can rescue a team from any situation, and Bangladesh showed exactly that," Ramiz concluded.