SPORTS REPORTER

Hard work and self-belief are the two hallmarks of Taskin Ahmed’s international career.

After bursting onto the scenes in 2014, Taskin had seemingly lost his way in the international arena after ICC suspended him for having an illegal action in 2016 which was followed by bouts with injuries and a prolonged lean period which led to him not getting picked for the ICC World Cup 2019.

But the right-arm pacer persevered through the many challenges, worked hard on his fitness and his craft and never lost belief in his ability in making a comeback.

The blood, sweat and tears shed by the pacer did not go to waste as he has turned a new leaf in his career and has become the leader of Bangladesh’s attack across three formats.

Taskin, who was named player-of-the-series in the Tiger’s recent Test series against West Indies, added another feather in his cap yesterday while playing for Durbar Rajshahi against Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), when he claimed 7 for 19 in his four overs – the best ever bowling figure in BPL history.

He was on point from his very first delivery in the match, making the ball whisk past Liton Das, zipping off the surface while moving away. Wry smiles appeared across Liton and Taskin’s faces, both acknowledging the unplayable delivery.

But Taskin was just getting warmed up, as the next delivery was of the same ilk and this time Liton could not get his bat out of the way and departed caught behind.

Tanzid Tamim would perish too soon after, nicking an out-swinger. After Dhaka revived their innings, Taskin came in with his variations and picked up two more wickets in the 17th. In the final over, the variations and yorkers saw him pick up three more inside four balls.

Taskin overtook Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir, who had taken six for 17 for Khulna Tigers against Rajshahi Royals in 2020 and is also one of only three bowlers to pick seven wickets in a recognised T20 after Malaysia’s Syazrul Idrus and Netherlands’ Colin Ackermann.

Claiming seven wickets in a T20 game is an improbable thought for most bowlers, but not Taskin, as the supremely confident 29-year-old pacer claimed that he manifested his seven-wicket haul into reality.

“Yes, I thought of it, otherwise it wouldn’t happen. And yes, you need a bit of luck but Alhamdulillah, I am happy with how I have been able to execute what I want to do,” Taskin expressed his feelings.

“Alhamdulillah, this is a big achievement for me. Since I am a Bangladeshi, it’s a proud moment for me that even after leaving the game, my name will remain in BPL history,” he added.

He also said that is just the beginning for him in terms of giving something back to the country.

“Truth be told, this is my time to give back. The reason is that for so many years the board has supported me and I have gained experience. I am reading situations better and game awareness has improved. I feel like it’s my duty to support the team whether I am playing for Bangladesh or a franchise,” he said about being able to perform with regularity.

“My dream is to end my career as a legendary fast bowler. I want to get lots of wickets and heavily contribute in winning matches for the country,” he concluded.