Taijul hits back at critics after stunning five-wicket haul in Chattogram
Taijul Islam, Cricfrenzy
Bangladesh left-arm spinner Taijul Islam silenced his critics by showcasing his experience, grabbing his 16th five-wicket haul on the opening day of the second Test against Zimbabwe in Chattogram on Monday.
Taijul had come under fire after a disappointing outing in Bangladesh’s three-wicket loss in the Sylhet Test, where he managed to claim just two wickets — the joint-lowest by a spinner in that game alongside Zimbabwe’s Wessly Madhevere. His underperformance, especially in spin-friendly home conditions, drew criticism on social media.
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But the 33-year-old responded emphatically, finishing the first day in Chattogram with five wickets, helping to leave Zimbabwe reeling at 227 for 9 after they chose to bat. Playing his 53rd Test, Taijul didn’t hold back when addressing the criticism he faced following the first match.
"I think those who criticise a player who has played so many matches after watching just one match don't understand the game," Taijul said during the press conference.
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Although firm in defending himself, Taijul also admitted that he fell short of expectations in Sylhet.
"There is a matter of being satisfied. It's not a good thing, the way I bowled in Sylhet, considering that I'm a player who has played 50 Tests. It feels good to be able to bounce back after that," he added.
