Bangladesh batter Mominul Haque has once again voiced his frustration at being labelled a “Test-only” cricketer, warning that such perceptions could discourage the next generation from pursuing the longest format.
The 34-year-old, Bangladesh’s third-highest run-scorer in Tests, remains a key figure in the national red-ball set-up. However, he believes the tag of a Test specialist has significantly limited his opportunities in white-ball cricket, both internationally and domestically.
Mominul last featured in a One-Day International in September 2018 and has not played a T20 International since 2014. Domestically, the pattern has continued. Although selected by Sylhet Titans in the 2026 Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), he did not play a single match.
Currently representing East Zone in the Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL), Mominul struck 83 off 82 balls in the opening round against North Zone in Bogura. Despite his effort, East Zone fell short while chasing 336, finishing on 281.
Speaking to reporters after the defeat, Mominul questioned the logic of preparing players exclusively for red-ball cricket.
“I have said before that selection for ODIs is secondary; it should depend on performance. But players should at least get opportunities in domestic white-ball tournaments. Preparing someone only for red-ball cricket sets a bad example,” he said.
He warned that young cricketers may lose interest in becoming Test specialists if they see limited opportunities outside the format.
“When young players see that someone like Shadman Islam or Mominul plays only red-ball cricket and then cannot feature in white-ball tournaments or the BPL, they will lose the dream of playing Test cricket. There are financial implications as well.
“If this continues, future players will feel there is no benefit in becoming a Test player. Under these conditions, no one should aim to become a Test cricketer because you are not getting to play white-ball games. For me, that sets a bad precedent,” he added.
Bogura, traditionally known as a batting-friendly venue, produced another high-scoring encounter, with more than 600 runs scored across both innings. Mominul admitted he was disappointed not to convert his start into a match-defining knock.
“Bogura is usually high-scoring and favours batters. My 83 was not enough. I could have batted at least 50 overs and made the game closer. I made a slightly wrong decision at the point where I got out,” he said.
