Mominul Haque etched his name in the annals of Bangladesh cricket history on Monday, becoming just the second batter from the nation to score a Test century on Indian soil. The 35-year-old captain achieved this milestone during the fourth day’s play of the second Test between India and Bangladesh at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.
Haque, known for his calm and composed batting style, reached his 13th Test century in style, sweeping a delivery from the wily Ravichandran Ashwin along the ground through backward square leg, just before lunch. This remarkable achievement placed him alongside Mushfiqur Rahim as the only Bangladeshi centurions in India.
The knock was a testament to Haque’s perseverance and skill. After two and a half days of play were lost due to persistent rain, Haque resumed his innings with determination. He meticulously navigated the early overs, leaving balls outside the line of the stumps and patiently waiting for the right opportunities.
Once the spinners were introduced, Haque unleashed his arsenal of sweep shots, consistently finding the boundaries and frustrating the Indian bowlers. He amassed his hundred in 172 balls, laced with 16 fours and a powerful six, propelling Bangladesh to 205/6 in 66 overs.
With just five sessions of play remaining in the Test match, Haque’s century provided a much-needed boost for Bangladesh, keeping their hopes of a historic victory alive. His achievement also highlights his status as one of the most reliable batsmen in Bangladesh’s Test squad, capable of delivering crucial performances on the biggest stage.
