Mushfiqur Rahim 100th Test: Bangladesh captain Najmul Shanto said that the sporting wicket in Sylhet was to his liking and the team would like to get competitive, balanced surfaces at home. The first Test pitches had something for everyone as Bangladesh smashed Ireland by an innings and 47 runs to go 1-0 up in the two-match series.
“We didn’t ask for a spin-friendly pitch. We wanted a sporting wicket, and that’s exactly what we got,” Najmul Shanto said. “Even after three or four days, the wicket looked good. Conditions and opponents have to be taken into consideration, but a sporting wicket is necessary. This is Test cricket at the international level, it’s about winning and a decent pitch benefits the entire team.”
Shanto Stresses on Importance of Balanced Home Conditions
Shanto outlined that taking the home advantage is fine, but Bangladesh must also look to get competitive surfaces that test every department.
“The wicket in this Test was excellent good for batting and helpful for both pacers and spinners. A pitch like this is ideal for the whole team,” he added.
Focus Shifts to Mirpur Ahead of Second Test
With the second Test scheduled to get underway on November 19 in Mirpur, Shanto acknowledged the challenges of the venue yet still remains optimistic.
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“Mirpur is always a challenging venue, whoever the opponent or bowling unit is,” Najmul Shanto said. “What matters is how we handle those challenges. The confidence from this win should help us in the next match.”
Debutant Hasan Murad, Opener Joy Steal the Show
Shanto hailed the debutant left-arm spinner Hasan Murad for his composure and consistency.
“He plays first-class cricket every year and performs consistently. Showing so much patience in Bangladesh conditions as a spinner is impressive. The way he bowled was outstanding,” Shanto said.
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Murad finished the Test with six wickets, including four in Ireland’s second innings, as he played a very significant role in sealing this victory.
The captain also hailed opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy, who upon his return to the XI, scored a brilliant 171.
“Coming back after being dropped and playing such a big innings is tough, but he made it look natural. Joy has improved his mindset a lot, and I hope he continues this approach against all teams,” said Shanto.
Mushfiqur Rahim Set for Historic 100th Test
Najmul Shanto is looking ahead to the Mirpur Test and expressed his excitement over Mushfiqur Rahim’s milestone as he becomes the first Bangladeshi cricketer to play 100 Tests. “It’s a tremendous achievement. We want to celebrate all five days.
This has never happened in Bangladesh cricket, and such a player deserves the highest respect,” Shanto said. “As captain, I’ll ensure he gets the honour he deserves. And I hope Mushfiq bhai continues playing for us even after his 100th Test his experience is invaluable.”
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