Sports Desk:

Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz said on Tuesday he is aiming to reach the top of the ICC Test all-rounder rankings after completing a rare double of 2,000 runs and 200 wickets in the format.

The 26-year-old became only the second Bangladeshi after Shakib Al Hasan to achieve the feat during the recent Test series against Zimbabwe.

“Of course, it feels really good,” Miraz told reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. “It would feel even better if I can reach number one in the all-rounder rankings.”

He was speaking after being honoured by the Bangladesh Cricket Supporters’ Association (BCSA), who presented him with a token of appreciation.

“They always support us from the stands, whether at home or abroad. On Tuesday they came to congratulate me. It felt really good,” he said.

Miraz, who made his Test debut in 2016, said he is focused on gradual progress rather than setting lofty individual targets.

“My career has just started. The goal is to go higher. At the end of the day, it’s a long journey. I’m not thinking about 400 wickets or 5,000 runs. I’m trying to move forward step by step,” he said.

He also welcomed the appointment of former Australian pacer Shaun Tait as a coach, recalling their time together in the Bangladesh Premier League.

“I worked with Shaun Tait when I was captaining Chattogram. Our understanding was very good,” Miraz said. “He’s kind and helpful. He knows what needs to be done, having played for Australia. I think having him as coach is a positive move for our team,” he concluded.