(Image Source: AFP)
[Saba Sports News] Bangladesh’s rising star Tanzid Hasan Tamim had a breakthrough performance in the ICC World Cup, finally delivering with a maiden ODI half-century against India in Pune. His place in the playing XI had been under scrutiny due to previous failures, and his position might have been in question had regular ODI skipper Shakib Al Hasan been available. Shakib was rested due to an injury.
Bangladesh had experimented with multiple opening pairs throughout the year, but eventually, they settled on Tanzid and Litton Kumar Das for the time being. Despite several changes in the batting order, the duo secured a permanent place in all four games they played in the competition. This was particularly rewarding for Tanzid, who is seen as a potential successor to legendary opener Tamim Iqbal.
The new opening pair of Tanzid and Litton put up a 93-run partnership against India, their highest opening stand in the World Cup. However, their efforts went in vain as the middle order failed to capitalize on the platform, resulting in a comfortable seven-wicket victory for India.
While Litton had shown good form with two half-centuries in the tournament, Tanzid struggled initially, scoring 5, 1, and 16 in the opening three games. However, his performance in warm-up matches against Sri Lanka and England had impressed the team management, leading to his continued inclusion.
Tanzid expressed confidence gained from his maiden half-century against India and acknowledged the team’s belief in his abilities. He recognized the importance of contributing to the team’s success and emphasized the team management’s consistent backing of his opening role.
Bangladesh’s interim ODI skipper, Najmul Hasan, echoed the sentiment of supporting batsmen in their designated positions and emphasized the team’s expectation for more significant contributions from Tanzid.