Can Towhid Hridoy secure a fixed spot in Bangladesh's ODI lineup?

Towhid Hridoy has batted in multiple positions since his ODI debut in 2023. The question remains whether he can lock down the No. 4 spot in the post-Mushfiqur Rahim era.

Career Breakdown by Batting Position:

• No. 3: 3 innings, 40 runs, average 13.33
• No. 4: 13 innings, 476 runs, average 39.66
• No. 5: 18 innings, 539 runs, average 31.70
• No. 6: 5 innings, 136 runs, average 68.00
• No. 7: 5 innings, 74 runs, average 24.66

Bangladesh, not involved in the ongoing T20 World Cup, are focusing on settling their ODI batting order ahead of next year's World Cup. Preparations begin with a home series against Pakistan.

Selection Panel Backing Fixed Role
Hasibul Hossain Shanto of the national selection panel has advocated for Hridoy to have a fixed batting position, believing it would improve his performance. However, ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has occasionally promoted him, despite earlier suggesting No. 6 might maximize his impact.

Key Quotes from Hasibul Hossain Shanto:

• "I feel his batting position is the key issue. When early wickets fall and overs are left, he scores runs. But if there is no early wicket and he gets less time, he struggles a bit. If he bats in a settled position it will be better for him."
• "If he bats higher, he can play all kinds of shots. But he needs a bit of time at the start. Once he is set, he can play all around the ground."
• "From what I have seen, whenever he has batted higher or when early wickets have fallen, he has scored runs. I believe if he bats higher, he will definitely deliver results… His position needs to be fixed."

Addressing Criticism and BPL Form
Hridoy has faced criticism for a perceived one-dimensional style with limited off-side play. He responded strongly in the recent Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), finishing as the second-highest run-scorer:

• Runs: 382
• Average: 38.22
• Strike Rate: 137.90
• Innings: 1 century, 3 half-centuries

He also addressed questions about handling the new ball by opening for Rangpur Riders mid-tournament, successfully taking on seasoned fast bowlers once set.

Outlook
Whether Hridoy gets a settled role or continues to be shuffled remains uncertain. However, evidence suggests that a consistent, higher position in the order significantly increases his chances of sustained success, aligning with his batting pattern and temperament.