Enamul Haque - An Unlikely Partnership

An Unlikely Partnership

Early on his career, Moni enjoyed a highly successful partnership with another all rounder Aminul Islam Bulbul. As Bulbul moved up the batting order, he concentrated more on his batting, and less on his bowling. Then in December, 1994, Mohammad Rafique emerged as a new all rounder for the national side.

In a sense, this was a strange partnership, as both of them were left arm slow bolwers, and useful lower order hitters. Very few sides in world cricket take two left arm slow bolwers in their side. In fact, at the time of Rafique's arrival, many thought that Moni's international career will be over, specially, given his rather indifferent form during the 5th ICC Trophy in Kenya early in 1994. Yet, right from the beginning, the two formed a wonderful combination which went onto serve the national squad throughout the 90's.

In the 2nd SAARC cricket tournament at Dhaka during Dec. 1994, they played prominent roles in taking the local side ot the final. Moni took 3/25 against Sri Lanka A & Mohammad Rafique took 3/25 against India A.

The duo were in splendid form during Bangladesh's historical truimph in 1997 ICC Trophy. The pair took 31 wickets together, Rafique 19 at 10.68, Moni 12 at 18 a piece. Rafique also came good with the bat in the final. Promoted to the opening slot in a rain shortened game, he blasted 26 of only 15 deliveries; his innings including two sixes and two fours.

And finally, they played their part in the first ever ODI win for Bangladesh against Kenya in 1998. Rafique won the MOM award for his 77 with the bat & 3/56 with the ball, Moni took 2/45 from 10 economical overs.