Taijul Islam Nears Historic Test Landmark as Bangladesh Eyes New Bowling Era

Bangladesh left-arm spinner Taijul Islam stands on the verge of rewriting the country’s Test record books as the second Ireland Test begins today at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.

The 33-year-old is just four wickets away from equalling Shakib Al Hasan’s tally of 246 Test wickets. With favourable spin conditions expected, Taijul Islam could surpass the veteran all-rounder to become Bangladesh’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, a landmark moment in the nation’s red-ball history.

A Decade of Consistency Leads to Historic Moment

Since his debut in 2014, Taijul has quietly built a reputation as Bangladesh’s most reliable longer-format bowler. His 242 wickets in 56 Tests—at an average of 31.34—reflect not only longevity but remarkable consistency. His 17 five-wicket hauls and best innings figures of 8 for 39 against Zimbabwe remain among the finest performances by a Bangladeshi bowler.

While Shakib’s 246 wickets came over 71 Tests, Taijul Islam reaching the same number in significantly fewer matches underlines his development from a supporting spinner to the frontline force of Bangladesh’s attack. His ability to bowl long, disciplined spells has made him invaluable in home conditions, where spin has always been the country’s biggest weapon.

Dominance at Home: The Backbone of Taijul’s Rise

One striking aspect of Taijul’s success is his home dominance. More than two-thirds of his Test wickets—186 in total—have come on Bangladeshi soil, particularly at Dhaka and Chattogram. These venues traditionally favour spin, but Taijul has stood out even among teammates, often carrying the attack during periods when Shakib was absent.

In the past few years, Taijul has been Bangladesh’s most dependable bowler in the red-ball format. Whenever the team needed breakthroughs on deteriorating surfaces, he delivered—quietly, without theatrics, and with remarkable discipline.

The upcoming Dhaka Test offers him another ideal stage: slow turn, footmarks from day two onwards, and an Irish batting lineup still adapting to subcontinental conditions.

Shakib’s Absence and Shift in Bangladesh’s Bowling Hierarchy

Shakib Al Hasan, long considered Bangladesh’s greatest cricketer, has been absent from the Test setup since the India series in late 2023. His uncertainty about returning—further complicated by political tensions and restrictions involving the Sports Ministry—has accelerated a shift in Bangladesh’s Test bowling hierarchy.

For over a decade, Shakib dominated all bowling charts. But Taijul Islam’s rise has been steady, unspectacular, and built on pure red-ball discipline. As one team official put it: “Taijul has transformed from a supporting spinner to our most trusted match-winner at home.”

Still, surpassing Shakib is more than a personal achievement. It symbolises the transition of leadership in Bangladesh’s bowling unit, signalling a new era shaped by homegrown long-format specialists.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz: A Quiet Rival Close Behind

Adding intrigue to the milestone is the presence of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, another standout all-rounder in Bangladesh’s bowling ranks. With 208 wickets in 55 Tests, Miraz is the only active player close enough to challenge Taijul. The trio—Shakib, Taijul, and Miraz—are the only Bangladesh bowlers to cross the 200-wicket mark in Tests.

While Miraz excels in both red- and white-ball cricket, Taijul’s speciality remains Test matches. His single-format focus has contributed to his upward climb, contrasting with Shakib and Miraz, who must split attention across all three international formats and franchise cricket commitments.

Given Miraz’s age—just 27—it is likely that the competition for Bangladesh’s top Test bowling record will continue for years to come.

Taijul on Shakib: No Regrets, Only Respect

Throughout his career, Taijul has often been overshadowed by Shakib’s star power. Yet his humility remains intact. Speaking earlier about comparisons with Shakib, he remarked:“It’s not like I never played without Shakib bhai.

We played matches without him even when he was in the squad.”

“I have no regrets. I felt good playing with big players. It’s always a happy feeling to share things with them.” He added.

Such comments highlight the quiet professionalism that defines Taijul’s cricketing identity. While he rarely commands headlines, his contribution to Bangladesh’s red-ball cricket has been immense—and this milestone confirms that legacy.

Ireland Test: Historic Opportunity Meets Favourable Conditions

The ongoing Test against Ireland is pivotal not only for Bangladesh’s series ambitions but for Taijul Islam’s personal quest for history. Conditions in Dhaka are expected to assist spinners, with slow turn from the first session and increasing rough as the game progresses.

These are the conditions in which Taijul Islam thrives:

• Long spells
• Tight lines
• Patient, steady pressure
• Exploiting small technical flaws in batters

Bangladesh’s bowling coach echoed confidence before the match:

“If Taijul sticks to his strengths, the wickets will come naturally. He doesn’t need to chase them.”

A four- or five-wicket haul could elevate him into the record books by Day 2.

A Milestone With Global Relevance

On a global scale, Taijul Islam’s achievement is notable. In an era where Test cricket faces pressure due to franchise leagues, he represents the rare breed of bowler dedicated almost entirely to the longest format.

Few bowlers today reach the 250-wicket mark, especially those outside traditional Test powerhouses. For Bangladesh—a nation still building its identity in red-ball cricket—Taijul becoming the highest wicket-taker would be a statement of maturity and progress.

It also sends a message to the ICC and cricketing nations: Bangladesh is producing world-class Test specialists.

What Taijul’s Milestone Means for Bangladesh Cricket

Surpassing Shakib would mean:

1. A New Face of Bangladesh’s Red-Ball Bowling

Taijul Islam becomes the centerpiece of the Test attack, especially at home.

2. A Changing of Generations

With Shakib’s uncertain future, Taijul Islam and Miraz represent the new leadership of Bangladesh cricket.

3. Inspiration for Future Spinners

Young bowlers in the academy systems now see a pathway to Test success through discipline and hard work.

4. Greater strategic clarity

Bangladesh can build long-term Test plans around Taijul–Miraz as the frontline partnership.

A Legacy in the Making

Taijul Islam’s impending milestone is more than a number as it reflects resilience, dedication, and mastery of the longest format. Whether he overtakes Shakib in this Test or the next, his place among Bangladesh’s greatest Test cricketers is secure.

As the Dhaka Test begins, fans and teammates alike will watch closely, hoping to witness a landmark moment that redefines Bangladesh’s Test cricket history.