Taijul Islam has entered a new chapter of Bangladesh’s cricketing history. With a memorable performance against Ireland in the Mirpur Test, the left-arm spinner has overtaken Shakib Al Hasan to become Bangladesh’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. And while fans and teammates have showered him with praise, the message that has stood out the most is the one from Shakib himself—the very man whose long-standing record Taijul has now surpassed.
Taijul began the Test with 242 wickets, four behind Shakib’s tally of 246. He wiped out the deficit with an impressive four-wicket haul in the first innings. In Ireland’s second innings, he needed just one more to rewrite the record books. That moment came when he trapped Andy Balbirnie leg-before, officially claiming the throne.
But Taijul did not stop there. He went on to secure two additional wickets, pushing his total to 249—placing himself on the brink of another landmark: 250 Test wickets. His rapid rise highlights not just consistency, but a rare ability to deliver quietly under pressure, something Bangladesh cricket has increasingly come to rely on.
Shakib’s reaction was graceful and generous. In a heartfelt Facebook message, he wrote: “Congratulations Taijul. I believe you will finish your career with at least 400 Test wickets. Best wishes.”
The prediction has fueled renewed excitement among fans, especially since no current Bangladeshi bowler apart from Taijul has even reached the 200-wicket mark. Shakib himself had broken Mohammad Rafique’s record back in 2013 and held the top spot for 12 uninterrupted years.
This Mirpur Test carries extra emotional weight as it also marks Mushfiqur Rahim’s 100th Test appearance. The seasoned batsman congratulated Taijul, saying: “Highest wicket-taker in Tests… Congratulations Taijul. Many more to come, In Sha Allah.”
Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto also shared his admiration: “What a historic achievement! You have always given your best for the team with integrity and quiet determination. We are proud of you.”
T20 captain Liton Das added his own tribute, completing the chorus of praise from Bangladesh’s leadership group.
Taijul’s achievement signals more than just a personal milestone; it reflects the growing maturity of Bangladesh’s Test side. His disciplined approach, accuracy, and control make him a vital component of Bangladesh’s bowling unit. And with Shakib himself tipping him for 400 wickets, expectations are soaring.
For now, Taijul stands tall as Bangladesh’s new Test wicket king—humble, focused, and ready for more. The record books have been updated, but his journey is far from over.
Fact Table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Previous record-holder | Shakib Al Hasan – 246 wickets |
| Taijul’s current tally | 249 wickets |
| Record-breaking moment | LBW dismissal of Andy Balbirnie |
| Match | Bangladesh vs Ireland, Mirpur Test |
| Additional reactions | Mushfiqur Rahim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Liton Das |
| Shakib’s prediction | Taijul could reach 400 Test wickets |
