Taijul Steps Up in Shakibs Absence, Sets New Record as a Left-Arm Spinner

The long absence of Shakib Al Hasan has posed a significant challenge for Bangladesh cricket. Following his retirement from Test cricket, a noticeable gap emerged in the team’s spin department. Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam has admirably filled that void, showcasing outstanding bowling across two Tests against Ireland.

A Unique Milestone for a Left-Arm Spinner in Test Cricket
Taijul Islam explained that he reached the 250-wicket milestone as a left-arm spinner in the fewest matches jointly. This achievement reflects how much greater responsibility has fallen on his shoulders in Shakib’s absence.

The core leadership of Bangladesh’s spin attack now rests with Taijul. Analysts believe that if he maintains his fitness and rhythm, he could continue leading the team’s spin department for another four to five years.

Although Shakib’s chances of returning appear slim, Taijul was asked by the media whether he would be excited if Shakib joins as a spin coach in the future. Taijul responded,

“No, there is nothing to get excited about here. He is a big star. If the Bangladesh Cricket Board appoints him as a coach, it will definitely be the board’s decision. Whoever comes as a coach, we have to work with them.”

When asked who could surpass him in wickets, Taijul cautiously said,

“It’s difficult to say, not at this moment. When you see someone’s career reaching 100–150–200 wickets, you may then understand whether they have the age or opportunities ahead to play that many matches, and then you can consider the possibilities. Not at this point, someone having such a tally is hard to predict. Those who are starting now—it’s too early to say—they might reach 500 wickets.”

Taijul’s consistent performance and record-breaking achievements demonstrate that he is not only filling Shakib’s void but also emerging as a new pillar of Bangladesh’s spin attack