Dhaka:Bangladesh offspinner Nayeem Hasan emphasized the importance of forming a substantial partnership to secure a victory in the first Test against the West Indies, despite the team's current batting struggles. The hosts faced a challenging situation, reduced to 79-6 in their second innings, but managed to extend their lead to 106 runs.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nayeem highlighted the potential impact of a significant partnership, given the pitch's favorable conditions for turn and bounce. He remained unbeaten on 18, alongside Jaker Ali, who was also on 18, when play was halted on Day 3. Nayeem stated that their immediate goal was to bat as long as possible and increase their lead, with a target of reaching 200 runs considered a substantial achievement from their current position.
Nayeem had earlier contributed significantly with the ball, taking 4-33 to help dismiss the West Indies for 245 in their first innings, securing a 27-run lead for Bangladesh. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining a positive approach on the turning pitch, explaining that keeping the scoreboard moving would put pressure on the opposition bowlers.
Reflecting on the team's batting performance, Nayeem acknowledged that Bangladesh's top order could have performed better, particularly under the lights when the ball exhibited unpredictable behavior. He also shared insights from captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who advised him to focus on consistent bowling rather than attempting too many variations.
Nayeem shared a light-hearted moment with Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who jokingly suggested that they share the wickets between them during the match. Despite reaching the milestone of 50 Test wickets in his ninth year of international cricket, Nayeem expressed no regrets about his limited opportunities, stating his commitment to giving 100 percent whenever he plays.