Mehidy Hasan on the road to becoming Bangladesh's best all-rounder

Bangladesh have made history by defeating Pakistan in a 2-match Test series for the first time in international cricket at home. This victory came after losing 11 consecutive games to India's arch-rivals over the years. It would not be wrong to say that several heroes contributed to this win, from the pillar of the Bangladesh cricket team, Mushfiqur Rahim, to Litton Das. However, one player who has particularly impressed in recent times is Mehidy Hasan Miraz, with his all-round ability. On the Pakistan tour, the young cricketer took 10 wickets in 2 matches and scored 155 runs.

He saved the Bangladesh cricket team from a follow-on in the 2nd Test when they were 6 wickets down for just 26 runs. Mehidy formed a crucial partnership with Litton Das to avoid the follow-on and keep Bangladesh alive in the series. During this innings, he scored 78 runs. For his impeccable performance, he was awarded the Player of the Series award.

Mehidy Hasan played this crucial knock at the number 8 position, proving that he could become one of the best all-rounders for the Bangladesh cricket team if he bats higher up the order.

Speaking on this, he said, "No, I don't aim to be the best number eight," Mehidy told reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. "Batting at number eight comes with a lot of pressure (laughs). Sometimes the team does well, and then I come in at number eight, or sometimes the top order fails, and I have to bat under pressure. I mean to say that I don't want to be the best at number eight, but rather aim to be one of the best higher up the order."

He further mentioned that he expects to get more opportunities once senior player Shakib Al Hasan retires from international cricket.

"If a team has two all-rounders, it provides a great advantage. Since my batting has improved recently...earlier, the team didn't benefit as much from my batting as I mainly played as a bowler. Now, I'm contributing more (with the bat) and it feels great. Of course, it takes hard work and practice; it's not something achievable in just one or two years. You have to play well over a long period. If I can continue my current form, hopefully, one day, I will become the best all-rounder.

"Having an all-rounder in a team is beneficial. Since both of us (Shakib and I) are playing, we share important responsibilities, contributing with both bat and ball. In world cricket, every player eventually retires. Most teams have replacements in place. When Shakib Bhai is no longer playing, my role in the team will probably become more significant," he said.

Following their recent triumph over Pakistan, Mehidy Hasan expressed confidence that Bangladesh will perform well in the upcoming two-match Test series against India. The series is set to kick off in Chennai on September 19.