Hridoy caught between expectation and execution in white-ball cricket

Hridoy caught between expectation and execution in white-ball cricket

Towhid Hridoy's form has come under scrutiny in recent weeks. Since his century against India in the Champions Trophy, the right-hander has struggled to maintain that level.

Hridoy earned high praise for his century against India, showcasing resilience and character.

Since then, his numbers have been underwhelming. He scored just 7 in Bangladesh's next CT fixture against New Zealand, the only ODI he's played since that ton. In the T20I series against UAE, where Bangladesh lost 2-1, Hridoy made scores of 20, 45, and 0. He followed that with 17, 5, and 25 against Pakistan in the next series.

Expectations soared after his century against India, and so did the scrutiny. Once known for his free-flowing, aggressive style, Hridoy has been attempting to re-calibrate his game.

Sohel Islam, Hridoy's mentor and head of the Bangladesh Tigers programme, believes Hridoy must adapt quickly to avoid further dip in form.

"I think the pressure of expectation is too much for him at this moment. Hridoy is one of the leaders of our batting line. Being one of the leaders, many are seen not being able to carry the pressure of expectation," Sohel told Cricbuzz. "I think Hridoy is going through a transition period. Earlier, when the pressure of expectation was less from him, he just used to go to the crease and smash. But now, he seems confused whether he should hit or make his innings longer. These calculations are too much for him.

"This change in roles… Some of the batters adapt it quickly, some may need time. After the hundred against India in Champions Trophy, he had a change in his mindset as he took on the anchor role himself to stay in the crease and take the game deeper," he said. "This change had a negative impact on him. Also, losing quick wickets in middle overs is a problem. After a good start from the openers, when two batters get dismissed rapidly, Hridoy seems confused. He is not sure whether he will attack from the first ball or take some time."

Sohel also pointed out that mental toughness and game awareness remain key areas of improvement for Hridoy and other young batters in the format. "I think mental toughness is an issue. Suppose, you need 60 from 30 balls. In this case, you know that your duty is to go to the crease and hit. Skill of the batters is the key here. If you want to hit 80 out of 100 balls, you would need the skill. I think we have to improve skills."