Mehidy Hasan Miraz Blossoming Into A Big-Role Player. In recent times, Bangladesh cricket has witnessed a significant shift in its dynamics, with Mehedi Hasan Miraz emerging as one of the key players for the national side, especially in the longest format of the game. With Shakib Al Hasan missing from the first Test against South Africa due to an injury — a match that would have marked Shakib’s farewell from Test cricket — much of the focus has turned to how Bangladesh would fill the void left by their star all-rounder. Miraz, already a crucial member of the team, has shown that he is more than capable of taking on this new responsibility, both with the bat and the ball.
The Turning Point in Miraz Career
Miraz’s journey into becoming one of Bangladesh’s most dependable players was not an overnight transition. While he had already made a name for himself as a reliable off-spinner, particularly in white-ball cricket, his recent performances in the Test arena have elevated his status as a complete all-rounder. When Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Liton Das fell in quick succession during Bangladesh’s second innings, leaving them at a precarious 112 for six, it seemed like another innings defeat was inevitable. However, Miraz, alongside Jaker Ali, forged an invaluable 138-run partnership, steering Bangladesh out of troubled waters.
This match was not the first instance where Miraz showcased his mettle in a challenging situation. Earlier this year in Pakistan, he played a vital role with the bat, forming a 200-run partnership with Mushfiqur Rahim in Rawalpindi. In the second Test of that series, he guided Liton Das during an unforgettable counterattack that led to a historic 2-0 series win for Bangladesh. Such performances demonstrate that Miraz is no longer just a bowler but a complete package — an all-rounder capable of delivering match-defining performances under pressure.
Miraz Rising Batting Credentials
Traditionally, Miraz has been known for his bowling prowess, but in recent times, his batting has become a crucial aspect of Bangladesh’s middle and lower order. The ability to hold the fort, especially when the top order has collapsed, has become one of Miraz’s standout qualities. Against South Africa, he exhibited patience and grit, a clear indication that his batting has matured. His ability to read the game and adjust his approach, depending on the situation, makes him an asset in Tests.
For instance, during his partnership with Jaker Ali, Miraz displayed excellent composure, choosing his moments of aggression wisely. His ability to tackle spinners like Keshav Maharaj with sweeps and reverse sweeps, while simultaneously handling the pace threat from Kagiso Rabada with calculated pulls and drives, was a testament to his growing reputation as a dependable batter.
Filling the Shoes of a Legend: Shakib Al Hasan
Replacing a player like Shakib Al Hasan, arguably one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of cricket, is no easy feat. Shakib’s absence has often been felt, and his ability to contribute with both bat and ball is unmatched. However, Miraz has begun to take on the mantle of becoming a key figure in Bangladesh’s lineup. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto echoed these sentiments before the series against South Africa, emphasizing that while there is no exact replacement for Shakib, Miraz could certainly be groomed for that role.
“So those who bat at number seven will hold an important role, and at this moment there is no one exactly to replace Shakib bhai. But I feel Miraz can be a very good option,” Shanto said. “He’s doing really well in Test cricket with both ball and bat, but there is room for improvement, and Miraz is ready to take that responsibility.”
Miraz has already been involved in several match-saving innings, often rescuing Bangladesh from precarious situations. His ability to handle pressure, combined with his growing skillset, makes him the ideal candidate to take on a more significant role in the team.
Miraz Role with the Ball
While Miraz’s batting has been on the rise, his primary role as a bowler remains just as important. His off-spin has been a key weapon for Bangladesh, especially on turning tracks in the subcontinent. However, it’s his ability to perform on various surfaces, including those that do not offer much assistance to spinners, that has set him apart.
In the Pakistan series earlier this year, Miraz was instrumental with the ball, turning the tide in Bangladesh’s favor with his consistent performances. His variations and ability to bowl long spells make him a reliable option for the captain in any situation.
Against South Africa, Miraz once again proved his value, keeping the Proteas’ batsmen in check and providing crucial breakthroughs when needed. His all-round performance in the ongoing series is an indication that Bangladesh’s future in Test cricket is in safe hands with Miraz at the helm.
The Partnership with Jaker Ali
One of the key highlights of the first Test against South Africa was the partnership between Miraz and Jaker Ali. After the top order collapsed, it was this partnership that not only prevented an innings defeat but also brought Bangladesh back into the contest.
Miraz’s ability to guide Jaker, a relatively inexperienced player at this level, was crucial in building the 138-run stand. As Bangladesh spin coach Mushtaq Ahmed pointed out, Miraz’s ability to handle spinners without resorting to rash shots was instrumental in their survival.
“Taijul Islam bowled brilliantly on day one, but because they kept sweeping him, kept reverse-sweeping him, it put a little bit more pressure on the spinners,” Mushtaq said. “I think we are very happy with the way our guys actually have that attacking option against spinners.”
Miraz’s leadership on the field was evident, as he played with authority, dictating the pace of the game. His partnership with Jaker has been one of the standout moments of the series, showcasing his ability to step up when his team needs him the most.
Miraz Growing Role in Bangladesh Cricket
As Bangladesh continues its journey in international cricket, it is clear that Miraz will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s future. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with his maturity and calm demeanor, makes him an indispensable asset.
While it is still early to compare Miraz with Shakib, it is evident that the young all-rounder is well on his way to filling those big shoes. His performances against South Africa are just the beginning, and with more opportunities, Miraz has the potential to become one of the best all-rounders in world cricket.
Table: Mehedi Hasan Miraz Key Performances in 2024
| Match | Runs Scored | Wickets Taken | Partnerships | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Pakistan (Rawalpindi Test) | 87 | 4 | 200+ with Rahim | Bangladesh won by 5 wickets |
| vs Pakistan (2nd Test) | 54 | 3 | Guided Liton Das | Bangladesh won by 7 wickets |
| vs South Africa (1st Test, Dhaka) | 76* | 5 | 138 with Jaker Ali | Match ongoing |
Conclusion
Mehedi Hasan Miraz has proven to be an essential part of Bangladesh’s Test squad, rising to the occasion when the team has needed him the most. His all-round abilities, leadership qualities, and resilience under pressure make him one of the most promising cricketers in the current setup. As Bangladesh looks toward the future, Miraz’s contributions will undoubtedly be central to their success in Test cricket. While comparisons to Shakib Al Hasan are inevitable, Miraz is creating a legacy of his own, showcasing that he is ready to lead Bangladesh’s charge in the coming years.
