Ebadot the batter means business in training

Fast bowler Ebadot Hossain made it to Bangladesh ODI squad for the first time on the back of a magnificent match-winning performance in the historic Mount Maunganui Test against New Zealand earlier this year.

However, when it comes to batting, the 28-year-old is apparently full of intent to contribute with the bat. An enthusiastic character during training, Ebadot had already requested the Tigers batting consultant Jamie Siddons for his time every day to work on his batting at the nets. 

And one cannot blame Ebadot though since so far in Tests, the right-hander has managed to score just eight runs in 18 innings. Although this kind of batting statistic might not be a cause for concern for someone who is a specialist bowler for his side, however, Ebadot holds a strange record of having failed to open his account for ten consecutive innings in Test cricket. Eventually to Ebadot's relief, he managed break the deadlock when he ended up scoring four runs in the Christchurch Test against New Zealand following Mount Maunganui heroics. 

Ebadot, who still waits to make his ODI debut in the ongoing series, had an interesting net session ahead of the third ODI against Afghanistan today. Assisted by spin bowling coach Rangana Herath, the lad from Sylhet seemed to have enjoyed his time with the bat.

After completing his customary bowling session, Ebadot headed to the nets where Herath presented him somewhat of a tricky challenge: of scoring ten runs from 12 deliveries. 

Herath, who had deceived many top-class batters in world cricket during his illustrious career while playing for Sri Lanka, had first explained the field set-up to Ebadot before initiating the challenge. 

And the rookie batter started well. After scoring two in the first two balls, Ebadot played a well-timed lofted shot. However, much to Ebadot's dismay, Herath said it went straight to the fielder. The two resumed again, after which the right-hander struck the left-arm spinner's next ball for a big heave over long-on.

"It's a sixer," said a delighted Ebadot out loud. Apparently, winning this particular challenge meant a lot to him.

And after scoring eight of the first four balls, there was no twist in the tale as Ebadot eventually scored ten runs and won the challenge. Ebadot was all smiles after that. 

And so was Herath.