Bangladesh missed a trick by holding back Shakib Al Hasan: Tamim Iqbal

Former Bangladesh opener Tamim Iqbal reckons the Tigers skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto missed a trick by holding back Shakib Al Hasan against India in the first innings of the opening Test at Chennai. The left-arm orthodox spinner, who is Bangladesh’s most experienced bowler, was introduced into the attack in the 52nd over.

As the pitch was providing assistance to the fast bowlers, Shanto kept backing the pace trio of Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana and Taskin Ahmed. Meanwhile, Shakib Al Hasan was taken to cleaners by Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin as he soon as he was given the ball.

The veteran spinner conceded 50 runs in the eight overs he bowled and conceded his runs at 6.20.

“Bangladesh missed a trick as Shakib should have bowled earlier when the ball was newer. The wicket was damp and he would have got some assistance. In my opinion, he came too late,” Tamim told the broadcasters.

On the other hand, Hasan Mahmud was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers, returning 4-58 on the opening day of the Test match. Mahmud said they will try to restrict India below 400 on the second day’s play.

“I think it will be good for us if we can get them all out before 400. The wicket is now much easier to bat on and conditions are batting friendly. We are trying how to put pressure back on India. Hopefully, we can do it,” Mahmud said in the press conference after the day’s play.

Mahmud admitted they could have been more disciplined in their bowling, especially in the final session in which they conceded 163 runs without any success in the wickets column.

“We could have been a bit more disciplined in our bowling. We are trying to hit the right channels and put pressure on the opposition. The momentum is with India, but if we try, we can bowl them out for below 400,” Mahmud said.

“If we can get early breakthroughs, we can make a comeback. The pitch is flat, but it’s possible to keep the batters in check if you bowl well,” Mahmud added.

India will resume the second day’s play at 339-6.