Impact matters more than batting position, Hridoy says

Dhaka, 18 Jan - Batter Towhid Hridoy said he has no issue batting anywhere in the batting order if the team asks him to move up or down.

Predominantly a middle-order batter, Hridoy has thrived at the top of the 
order in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), playing a key role in 
helping Rangpur Riders secure a playoff berth.

He began the tournament in his customary middle-order role but managed just 
106 runs from six outings at a modest strike rate of 109. However, since 
being promoted to the opening position, Hridoy has been in scintillating 
form, scoring 272 runs in four innings, including a century, at a strike rate 
of over 140.

"Yes, batting in the top order gives you the chance to play a bigger 
innings," Hridoy admitted after his 109 off 63 balls guided Rangpur to an 
eight-wicket victory over Noakhali Express at the Sher-e-Bangla National 
Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Despite his success as an opener, Hridoy stressed that impact matters more 
than position in the batting order.

"You have to focus on playing impactful innings - whether it's 25, 30, 40 or 
50 runs - and contribute as much as possible, regardless of whether you bat 
in the middle or lower order," he said.

Hridoy also highlighted the importance of adapting to the team's requirements 
and match situations.

"As a professional, you should be used to playing in different positions and 
know how to cope with them," he said. 

"Even top players do this in T20 cricket, often moving up and down the order. 
When the team gives me an opportunity and asks me to bat wherever needed, I 
have no problem with that."

He added that mental readiness is key. "Mentally, I'm ready to try and 
contribute to the team wherever I am sent."

Despite flourishing in the opening role, Hridoy maintained a team-first 
approach when asked about his preferred batting position in the national 
side.

"To be honest, as a player, I feel ready to contribute wherever the 
opportunity comes and wherever the team demands," he said. 

"At the end of the day, it's a team game, not my game alone. If it were just 
about me, I would ask to bat at the top. But in a team game, I try to serve 
the team wherever needed and contribute as much as I can."BSS