Sports Desk

Bangladesh capped off 2024 with a historic Test victory in Jamaica, breaking a 15-year drought for a win on West Indies soil. The 101-run triumph leveled the two-match series 1-1 and marked a remarkable turnaround for a side that had endured a challenging run in Test cricket earlier in the year.

With grit, ambition, and a newfound aggressive mindset, the Tigers delivered a complete team performance to secure their third away Test win of the year, following their historic 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan. It was a moment of redemption and a testament to the team’s resilience under pressure.

Taijul Islam, with his match-winning 5 for 50 in the second innings, played a crucial role in bundling out the hosts for 185 runs. However, the foundation of Bangladesh’s success was laid in the first innings, where Nahid Rana’s maiden five-wicket haul helped the visitors restrict the West Indies to 146, giving them a slim 18-run lead. Despite posting only 164 runs, Bangladesh’s bowlers ensured the team stayed in the contest.

The second innings showcased the Tigers’ newfound fearless approach. Shadman Islam, Mehidy Hasan, and Jaker Ali played vital roles, but Shahadat Hossain’s counterattacking 26-ball 28 at number three set the tone. Shahadat was promoted to bat after Mominul Haque fell ill, and his quick-fire knock eased pressure in the dressing room.

“When we went to bat in the second innings, I told the batters that this wicket is difficult if we don’t play positively,” skipper Mehidy Hasan said.

“With an 18-run lead, it was crucial to score quickly. I told the team we needed 250-plus runs to win the match, and everyone responded to that mindset.”

Mehidy revealed that Shahadat’s promotion was a last-minute decision but proved crucial.

“When Sourov (Mominul) was unwell, everyone was puzzled about who would bat at three. I asked Dipu (Shahadat), and he agreed. I encouraged him to play positively, hit the ball if it was there, and assured him no one would criticize him. He played with courage, and his 28 runs were vital,” he said.

Jaker Ali’s innings of 91 under pressure was another defining moment.

Smashing five sixes and eight fours, Jaker’s knock caught the West Indies off-guard and helped Bangladesh set a challenging target of 287. Despite being struck on the helmet early in his innings, Jaker batted with composure and aggression, shifting the momentum in favor of the visitors.

On the final day, Taijul Islam took center stage with his brilliant spell of 5 for 50, his 15th five-wicket haul in Tests. Supported by Taskin Ahmed and Hasan Mahmud, who chipped in with crucial wickets, Taijul spun through the West Indies lineup, securing the historic win for Bangladesh. Nahid Rana fittingly sealed the match with a pinpoint yorker to dismiss Shamar Joseph.

Mehidy, who captained the team in the absence of regular skipper Najmul Hossain due to injury, expressed his pride in the team’s performance.

“Alhamdulillah, I feel great that after losing the first game, we won the second. Captaining in the West Indies and achieving this is significant for me. The players supported my suggestions, and everyone gave their best effort in difficult conditions,” he said.

Taijul also reflected on his contribution with satisfaction.

“I am happy with my bowling because I fulfilled the team’s expectations. In the second innings, I knew there were high hopes from me, and Alhamdulillah, I delivered. This win is special because we had a mix of young and experienced players who worked together with great communication,” Taijul said.

Pace spearhead Taskin Ahmed, who shared the Player of the Series award with Jayden Seales after claiming 11 wickets in two matches, highlighted the significance of the series draw. “Alhamdulillah, this is a big achievement. Drawing the series in their conditions, where even big teams struggle, is significant,” Taskin said.

Taskin acknowledged the tough phase Bangladesh endured earlier in the year, losing five consecutive Tests after their historic win in Pakistan, including clean sweeps against India and South Africa.

“We were going through a difficult time, but this win shows our ability to bounce back. I gave my best in both matches, and being named Player of the Series is rewarding. Hopefully, there are many more achievements ahead,” said Taskin.

Taskin, who previously took a break from Test cricket due to shoulder issues, was elated to make an impactful return.

“I worked hard to recover my shoulder, and it’s better than before. I’m happy to contribute in the longer format again and hope to achieve more in the future.”

Bangladesh’s win in Jamaica was not just a victory on the scoreboard but a statement of intent.

Missing key players like regular skipper Najmul Hossain and experienced campaigner Mushfiqur Rahim, the team displayed character and adaptability. It was a complete team effort, with contributions from both experienced players and emerging talents like Nahid Rana and Jaker Ali.

This historic win not only ended Bangladesh’s year on a high but also reignited hope for a brighter future in Test cricket. With a fearless approach, strong leadership, and collective determination, the Tigers have laid the foundation for sustained success in the longer format of the game.