As the first Test match between Bangladesh and New Zealand unfolds in Sylhet, it has become a playing ground for record-setting and remarkable individual achievements. Najmul Hossain Shanto, guiding the Bangladesh team in his captaincy debut, has inscribed his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first Bangladeshi player to score a Test century as a skipper. His outstanding performance elevated him to the exclusive club of 32 cricketers worldwide who have achieved this feat on their captaincy debuts.
The day was also significant for New Zealand’s captain Tim Southee, who impressively carved out a distinct record for himself. His gritty innings of 35 runs not only contributed to the Black Caps gaining a slight edge of a 7-run lead over Bangladesh in the first innings but also allowed Southee to reach a personal milestone of 2,000 runs in Test cricket. By accomplishing this, Southee has joined an elite group of Kiwi cricketers, becoming only the third from his nation to achieve the remarkable double of scoring over 2,000 runs and taking over 300 wickets in Test cricket.
Before him, the legendary Richard Hadlee and the adept Daniel Vettori were the two New Zealanders to attain this prestigious milestone. Hadlee, renowned for his match-winning capabilities, was the quickest among the lot to reach this landmark, accomplishing it in a swift 61 Tests. Vettori, who like Hadlee has enjoyed a celebrated career, reached the double in his 94th Test match. Southee, though the slowest among the mentioned Kiwi cricketers, has attained this distinguished record in the 95th match of his illustrious Test career.
When reflecting on the records of Indian cricketers, there are four esteemed names that have achieved this unique double – Kapil Dev, Harbhajan Singh, Anil Kumble, and Ravichandran Ashwin. Ashwin, still an active player in the Test format, boasts an impressive tally of 489 wickets and 3,185 runs. Having reached these figures in 95 Tests, Ashwin’s career is far from over as he is expected to participate in the upcoming Test series against South Africa followed by a significant five Tests at home against England.
While individual performances such as those by Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tim Southee captivate the cricket enthusiasts, they serve as a reminder of the diverse nature of Test cricket and the indelible marks players leave on the field. As the first Test in Sylhet continues, fans witness the unwavering spirit of cricketers, striving not only for team success but also to etch their names among the greatest in the game.
In the realm of cricket, these stories of achievement reverberate beyond the boundaries of the pitch, inspiring generations to come. As the Test progresses, the anticipation of further records being broken and new tales of cricketing heroics being scripted keeps fans enthralled. And as the latest chapter of cricket unfolds, these historical milestones contribute to the ever-growing narrative of this beloved sport.