'Very special occasion': Bangladesh's Hasan Mahmud on Test five-wicket haul
What's the story
Bangladesh fast bowler Hasan Mahmud has expressed his delight at taking a five-wicket haul in the ongoing Test against West Indies. The pacer picked up six wickets for 90 runs, triggering a batting collapse for the visitors on day two of the match in Sylhet. Mahmud termed it as "a very special occasion to take a five-wicket haul at home," especially given how conditions favor bowlers only for a limited time.
Words
It is a very special occasion, says Mahmud
"It is a very special occasion to take a five-wicket haul at home," Mahmud said at the post-day press conference.
"I am glad that I could take this opportunity. In any case, taking a five-wicket haul in Tests is already a special feeling. I always try to contribute to the team's efforts by giving my best. The condition in Sylhet is helpful for fast bowlers for the first one or two hours of play," he added.
Information
'I am always striving for more such hauls'
"During this time, there is seam movement, swing available. But ultimately it flattens after those two hours. It becomes very batting friendly. We keep communicating our plans, processes. I try to keep things simple. I am always striving for more such hauls."
Bowling tactics
Historic 5-fer for Mahmud
Mahmud has now taken his first five Test five-fors in as many venues: Rawalpindi, Chennai, Darwin, Abu Dhabi, and Sylhet.
He is also the second Bangladeshi pacer to take a six-wicket haul at home after Shahadat Hossain against South Africa in 2008.
The bowler said he tries to keep batters guessing with subtle changes in line and length.
This was evident when Kavem Hodge and Amir Jangoo left balls that hit their off stumps.
Bowling plans
First Bangladeshi seamer to get a batter stumped
Mahmud also became the first Bangladeshi seamer to get a batter stumped, as per Cricinfo.
He said, "The batter [Joshua Bishop] was stepping out of the crease to play his shots. Shanto bhai told me that if the keeper is up to the stumps, it might prevent his movement."
Looking ahead, Mahmud hopes Bangladesh can take a lead in this Test match as they are currently 268 runs behind West Indies's total of 356.