Bangladesh’s Batting Struggles Under Spotlight

Bangladesh’s batting woes were evident after a seven-wicket loss to South Africa on the fourth morning of the Dhaka Test, where the top four collectively managed just 105 runs—their lowest contribution this year. A poor start on day one left Bangladesh struggling, with only the lower order, led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, averting an innings defeat.

Mehidy, who scored a fighting 97 in the second innings to force South Africa to bat again, stated that although the conditions and the toss favoured them, the top-order’s first-day collapse proved costly. He reflected that early runs would have changed the game, pointing out that Bangladesh’s dismissal for 106 before the second session on day one had put them on the back foot from the outset.

The need for better decision-making by Bangladesh’s batters was highlighted by Mehidy, especially as only Mahmudul Hasan Joy from the top order made any notable contributions. While Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto faltered in both innings, they each have had notable scores in recent games. Mehidy explained that strong starts by the openers ease pressure on the middle order, highlighting how facing the new ball early on is challenging for No. 5 and 6 batters. He expressed optimism that the team would identify areas for improvement in future matches.

Mehidy also urged the top order to take greater responsibility, pointing out that low scores strain the bowlers, who performed commendably under pressure. “Taijul [Islam] bhai bowled exceptionally,” he noted, adding that at least three or four batters should aim to turn promising starts into significant scores.

Currently, leading Bangladesh’s batting charts in the World Test Championship cycle, Mehidy shared his approach to thriving under pressure. He views challenging situations as opportunities to make a decisive impact, aiming to stabilise the team when batting from lower down the order. Over time, he has focused on handling the new ball, scoring effectively, and providing guidance to younger teammates.

However, Mehidy downplayed comparisons to Shakib Al Hasan, who was expected to play his farewell Test in Dhaka. He remarked that Shakib’s legacy, built over 17 years at a higher batting position, stands on its own, while he himself is only now finding consistency.

With four days to regroup before the next Test in Chattogram, Bangladesh’s batters have one more opportunity to prove themselves in familiar conditions before embarking on tours to the UAE and the West Indies.