Nayeem reaches new milestone to strengthen Bangladesh's spin legacy

Nayeem Hasan reached a significant milestone in his Test career on Friday, becoming the fastest Bangladeshi spinner to take 50 wickets in the longest format during the first Test against West Indies in Mirpur.

The 26-year-old off-spinner achieved the landmark by dismissing Shamar Joseph on the third day, reaching 50 wickets in his 16th Test after bowling just 2,856 deliveries. He surpassed Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who had previously held the record among Bangladeshi spinners.

The achievement came during a crucial phase of the match, with Bangladesh fighting to secure a first-innings advantage after West Indies had resumed the day at 134 for four.

Nayeem played a decisive role in restricting the visitors to 245, finishing with four wickets for 33 runs from 10.5 overs. Besides Joseph, he removed Jomel Warrican and Jayden Seales, while also dismissing Justin Greaves earlier in the innings.

His contribution helped Bangladesh take a 27-run lead, but the hosts subsequently struggled with the bat and finished the day at 79 for six in their second innings.

Nayeem's progress has been particularly noteworthy given the competition for places in Bangladesh's spin department. Mehidy and Taijul Islam have been established members of the Test attack, but Nayeem has gradually strengthened his claim through consistent performances.

His latest milestone provides another reminder of the depth Bangladesh can develop in spin bowling, an area that has traditionally been central to the country's Test ambitions.

With Bangladesh facing a difficult situation in the match, Nayeem could yet have another important role to play, this time with the bat, as he remained unbeaten on 18 at stumps.