Taijul Islam becomes Bangladesh's joint-highest wicket-taker in Tests: Stats
Bangladesh's Taijul Islam has equaled Shakib Al Hasan's record of becoming Bangladesh's joint highest wicket-taker in Tests. He achieved the feat on the third day of the ongoing second Test against Ireland in Mirpur. Taijul bowled with great precision in Ireland's second innings, sending down 35.3 overs and taking four wickets for 76 runs while keeping six maidens. Here are further details.
A fine spell from Taijul
Taijul bowled a remarkable spell to put his side ahead in the game. He ended the second day with one wicket, Harry Tector, who was lbw to him. On the third day, after a brief interruption due to an earthquake, Taijul struck twice in the 59th over. He dismissed Stephen Doheny and Andy McBrine within three balls before claiming Matthew Humphreys's wicket as well.
Taijul goes at par with Shakib
Taijul, who finished with 4/76 from 35.3 overs, has now raced to 246 wickets from 57 Tests at an average of 31.14, as per ESPNcricinfo. His tally includes 13 four-fers, 17 fifers, and two 10-wicket match hauls. While Shakib also boasts 246 Test scalps, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (209) is the only other Bangladesh bowler with at least 150 Test scalps.
190 wickets at home
190 of Taijul's 246 Test scalps have come in Bangladesh - the most for any bowler. His average in these games comes down to 27.73. Against Ireland, the left-arm spinner now has 18 wickets from five innings at a fine average of 21.44.
Massive lead for Bangladesh
Taijul's brilliance with the ball meant Ireland were bowled out for 265 runs in their first innings. Their only batter with a 50-plus score was Lorcan Tucker (75*). Hasan Murad and Khaled Ahmed took two wickets each to help Bangladesh restrict the visitors. However, despite the lead of 211 runs, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto opted not to enforce the follow-on. Notably, Bangladesh posted 476/10 while batting first on the back of hundreds from Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das.