Once heralded as Bangladesh cricket’s brightest Test prospect, Mominul Haque found himself grappling with an alarming slump in form that nearly erased him from the national conversation. From averaging an impressive 51.17 in 2014, his numbers plummeted to 36.86 in 2015, 23.50 in 2016, and 28.25 in 2017. This downward spiral culminated in his exclusion from the 14-man squad for the Test series against Australia, a decision that sent ripples through Bangladesh’s cricketing fraternity.
The backlash from fans and journalists was swift and severe.
At the press conference, chief selector Minhajul Abedin faced intense scrutiny
but remained composed. "Mominul made just one fifty in the last six
innings. He was dropped because of his form," he asserted, adding, “Others
are ahead of him based on current performance.” Despite the controversy,
Mominul’s fortunes shifted dramatically. An eye infection sidelined Mosaddek
Hossain, and following intervention from BCB President Nazmul Hassan, Mominul
was drafted back into the squad.
However, the comeback was far from triumphant. In the second
Test, batting at his favoured number four in the first innings, he showed
flashes of his old self before faltering. An uncharacteristic stint at number
eight in the second innings only magnified his struggles. Critics sharpened
their knives, and questions loomed over his place in the squad.
A Test of Character:
South Africa Beckons
With a drawn series against Australia behind them,
Bangladesh faced an intimidating tour to South Africa. For Mominul, it was a
chance to prove he belonged at the highest level. The challenge was daunting,
as Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada unleashed a barrage of pace and aggression.
When Imrul Kayes departed early, Mominul was thrust into the fray at number
three—a position where his average of 38.14 hardly inspired confidence.
Faced with adversity, Mominul drew upon the lessons of a
previous encounter against New Zealand, where he had counterattacked to rescue
his team from 8 for 2. This time, he chose a different path. Eschewing his
natural flair, he opted for patience and discipline. The result? A gritty 77
that spoke volumes about his determination to adapt and evolve.
Technical Evolution:
Breaking Down the Knock
Mominul’s innings was more than just a display of
resilience; it was a masterclass in adapting technique under pressure.
Occupying the Crease
Understanding his precarious form, Mominul prioritized
survival over flamboyance. Early nerves were evident, but his resolve to spend
time at the crease allowed him to regain rhythm. With each passing over, his
confidence grew, and he began to craft his innings with measured precision.
Straightening the Bat
Path
A significant flaw in Mominul’s recent technique had been
the angle of his bat during defence. On Day 2, his bat came down toward the second
slip, disrupting his balance and leaving gaps between the bat and pad. By Day 3,
these issues had been rectified. His straight bat and improved alignment
enabled him to time his drives exquisitely, anchoring the innings with
authority.
Masterful Footwork
Keshav Maharaj, South Africa’s wily spinner, posed a
formidable challenge with his variations. Mominul’s response was a lesson in
footwork. Dancing down the track, he disrupted Maharaj’s length and used his
supple wrists to convert threatening deliveries into scoring opportunities.
Back Foot Trigger
On South African pitches, the initial trigger movement often
dictates success. Mominul mirrored the techniques of greats like Sachin
Tendulkar and Brian Lara, whose backward movement allowed them to play late and
under their eyes. This adjustment was instrumental in countering Rabada and
Morkel’s pace and bounce.
Redemption and the Road Ahead
Mominul’s knock was a beacon of hope—not only for him but
for Bangladesh cricket. In rediscovering his form, he reminded selectors,
critics, and fans of his immense value to the team. For the Tigers, consistency
at the top order is a necessity, not a luxury. Mominul’s resurgence could be
the spark that reignites his career and strengthens Bangladesh’s Test
aspirations.
While one knock doesn’t silence critics, it can shift the narrative. Mominul Haque’s innings was not just a score on the board; it was a statement—a testament to grit, adaptability, and the unyielding spirit of a player unwilling to fade away.
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