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‘I know it’s hard for me to play when Shakib bhai is playing’- Taijul Islam

Bangladesh left-arm spinner Taijul Islam has accepted that it's hard for him to play in the same team with Shakib Al Hasan.


While speaking to Cricbuzz, Taijul accepted that it's hard for him to get a place in the eleven as long as Shakib is fit to play or if the pitch is favourable for the fast bowlers.


''I know it is hard for me to play when Shakib bhai is playing or when the condition is favourable to pace bowlers. But, it is a reality, and I have accepted it," Taijul said.


Both Taijul and Shakib are left-arm spinners, and sometimes Bangladesh may not have required the services of the two alike bowlers. Shakib has been preferred over the 30-year-old many times, but Taijul stated that he stays positive and waits for the opportunity to give his best with the ball.


''I play cricket, and I earn money. Not getting picked is not the end of everything. I love the game. What is my job? I am representing my country, and whenever I am required, I should be ready to come forward and play for the country. I don't like negativity to enter my head. All I think is that I will try to give my best whenever I get a chance," he further added.


Taijul became the fastest to the mark of 150 Test wickets among Bangladesh bowlers after grabbing a six-wicket haul against South Africa on the second day of their series-deciding second Test at St George’s Park Gqeberha. Shakib was the first Bangladeshi bowler to reach the milestone. However, Taijul registered the record after playing seven Test matches less than Shakib.


''I feel sorry for him (Taijul) considering he is doing well but still unable to claim a place in the playing XI for different reasons such as combination or balance of the team,'' Bangladesh team director Khaled Mahmud told Cricbuzz.


''But what is most fascinating is the way he keeps himself motivated despite not being able to play at times, despite performing, and this is a lesson for everyone considering it takes a big heart to take everything in one's stride,'' he said.


Recently, Shakib Al Hasan has been diagnosed as COVID-19 positive and will not take part in the first Test against visiting Sri Lanka at Chittagong, which will bring Taijul in contention as a front-runner to play the first Test in Shakib's absence. Taijul's home record has been excellent, with 115 wickets in only 23 Test matches.