'Hopefully next year'
The very next day after whitewashing West Indies in the two-match Test series, one of the architects behind Bangladesh's success, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam was busy with the routine task of taking his mother for a regular health check-up. Taijul, who has taken himself to the next level and finished as the fourth highest wicket-taker in Test cricket this year, spoke to The Daily Star's Mazhar Uddin in an exclusive, wide-ranging interview after completing his familial duties. The following are excerpts from the conversation:
The Daily Star (TDS): Obviously you had a fantastic 2018. Was there any specific preparation for the year?
Taijul Islam (TI): Obviously you have to set a benchmark whenever you start a season. Bangladesh cricket has now reached a stage where the competition is severe and if you are not able to perform in two or three matches there is always someone to replace you. It's a positive thing as it urges you to give your best. There was a phase in the middle when I did not pick many wickets or bag five-wicket hauls. My target was to do something extraordinary and, Alhamdulillah, this year was good for me. I have bowled a lot and done the hard work, which paid dividends.
TDS: You are still in the race for the fastest to pick 100 Test wickets by a Bangladeshi. How would you see this achievement?
TI: I am yet to pick 100 wickets and I am looking forward to it. Obviously we all want to pick as many wickets as we can. It's important to have the thirst in you as a player and I try to do that.
TDS: Before the second Test against West Indies you were just seven wickets shy of becoming the highest wicket-taker in 2018. You ended up with three. Any regrets for not achieving the feat?
TI: Nothing like that, but yes, who wouldn't want to be the highest wicket-taker of the year in the world? I was not aware of it till I started taking wickets in the Zimbabwe series. Anyone would feel that but I did not feel that bad because we won the series. But yes, there was a desire as you don't get such opportunities often. Maybe next year I will be able to achieve it.
TDS: How do you cope with Shakib Al Hasan playing the role of the lead left-arm spinner?
TI: Shakib bhai's bowling style and mine are different and we always enjoy bowling in pairs. I always try to concentrate on my economy and line and length. Shakib bhai has huge experience; whenever I don't understand anything I go to him and he always gives me the right advice.
TDS: Spinners gets more assistance in home conditions. What are the areas you think the spinners can work on when they play in seam-friendly conditions abroad?
TI: It's natural that wickets at home will be a lot different from those abroad. There will be more turn when bowling at a specific pace, which you won't get abroad. I played in New Zealand [Bangladesh's next tour in February 2019] before and I know what areas to work on. For instance, in Bangladesh we get side spin but when playing abroad it's important to get extra bounce from the pitch and you have to put extra effort behind the ball so that it takes edges and goes to silly point or short leg. I will start working on it and keep the upcoming series in mind during the Bangladesh Cricket League.
TDS: How do you keep yourself away from all the limelight and continue your job?
TI: I am just like any other male of my age. But I feel shy in front of the camera or even with the media. You know everyone does not feel comfortable with such things and I am one of them.
TDS: Is there any regret at not being part of the limited-overs side despite taking a hattrick on your ODI debut? Is there a desire to play limited-overs cricket for Bangladesh?
TI: I don't know who gave me the tag of a Test bowler… I just want to play cricket no matter which format I am playing. I believe I have the ability to play in any format. Sometimes it's annoying to hear such things being a cricketer.