Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) selectors have recalled middle-order batter Tawhid Hridoy to the national Test squad for the upcoming one-off match against Afghanistan, scheduled to begin on 9 October in the United Arab Emirates.
Hridoy’s inclusion comes on the back of a breathtaking unbeaten 350-run knock for Bangladesh ‘A’ against South Africa ‘A’ last month. The monumental triple century proved impossible for selectors to ignore, offering the 23-year-old an immediate route back into the international fold after a rocky start to his red-ball career.
The right-hander made his Test debut against Zimbabwe in June, but failed to make an impression, managing a modest combined total of just 12 runs across both innings. That disappointing outing led to his omission from the subsequent tour of Australia, raising questions over his adaptability to the longest format of the game.
However, Hridoy responded to his dropped status in emphatic fashion during the South Africa ‘A’ series. Demonstrating remarkable composure, immaculate shot selection, and exceptional physical endurance, his marathon innings of 350 not out re-established his credentials as one of Bangladesh’s premier batting prospects.
The upcoming solitary Test against Afghanistan in the neutral venue of the UAE presents Hridoy with a vital opportunity to translate his domestic form onto the international stage. Facing a formidable Afghan bowling attack in subcontinental conditions, the national side will rely heavily on his renewed confidence to solidify their middle order.
