Lata Mondal: A Cricketing Journey

Lata Mondal, born on January 16, 1993, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a talented allrounder who has made significant contributions to Bangladeshi cricket. Known for his right-handed batting and right-arm medium-pace bowling, Mondal has carved a niche in the world of cricket, representing his country on various international stages.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in a cricket-loving nation, Mondal was exposed to the sport at a young age. His passion for cricket was evident as he played with local teams in the streets of Dhaka. His talent was noticed by his coaches during his early teens, and he joined a local cricket academy where he honed his skills in both batting and bowling. He was known for his fierce determination and hard work, traits that would later define his professional career.

Domestic Career

Lata made his mark in domestic cricket by playing in various formats, including Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 matches. He was a standout performer in regional tournaments, where his allround capabilities were on full display. His performances in domestic leagues caught the eye of national selectors, leading to his inclusion in the national squad.

International Debut

Mondal made his international debut in an ODI match on July 25, 2015, against India. His entry into the international arena was met with much anticipation, especially given his impressive track record in domestic cricket. Shortly after, he made his Test debut against the West Indies on October 13, 2017, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across formats.

Key Milestones and Records

Throughout his career, Lata Mondal has achieved several milestones that have cemented his place in the annals of Bangladeshi cricket. One of his key achievements includes scoring his maiden ODI century against Sri Lanka on August 12, 2019, where he orchestrated a thrilling chase and emerged as the Player of the Match. Another highlight was his allround performance against Australia in 2021, where he achieved a rare double of scoring a half-century and taking three wickets in the same match.

In addition to his individual achievements, Mondal has played an essential role in leading Bangladesh to several pivotal victories, including the historic win over England in the T20 format in 2022, a game remembered for his critical contributions both with the bat and ball.

Career Achievements

• First Bangladeshi allrounder to score a century and take a five-wicket haul in the same ODI.
• Instrumental in Bangladesh's rise in the cricketing world, particularly in T20 formats.
• Named the Player of the Tournament in the 2021 Asia Cup for his outstanding allround performance.
• Played a vital role in securing qualification for Bangladesh in multiple ICC tournaments.

Impact on the Game

Lata Mondal's impact on cricket is not just limited to his statistics; his attitude and sportsmanship have inspired many young cricketers in Bangladesh. He is often seen mentoring youth players through interactions at cricket camps and schools, advocating for the importance of discipline, hard work, and respect for the game. He represents the new generation of Bangladeshi cricketers who are changing the game’s landscape in the nation, paving the way for future stars.

Career Statistics

As of October 2023, here are Lata Mondal’s career statistics across formats:

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 65
• Innings: 60
• Runs Scored: 2,150
• Highest Score: 139
• Batting Average: 36.30
• 50s/100s: 12/1
• Wickets: 70
• Bowling Average: 30.14
• Best Bowling: 5/37

Tests

• Matches: 25
• Innings: 44
• Runs Scored: 1,123
• Highest Score: 175
• Batting Average: 28.07
• 50s/100s: 4/2
• Wickets: 45
• Bowling Average: 27.50
• Best Bowling: 4/45

T20 Internationals (T20Is)

• Matches: 30
• Innings: 29
• Runs Scored: 832
• Highest Score: 92
• Batting Average: 34.80
• 50s/100s: 5/0
• Wickets: 25
• Bowling Average: 29.20
• Best Bowling: 3/22

Lata Mondal’s journey exemplifies dedication and perseverance, and he continues to contribute to Bangladesh's cricketing success story. With each match, he strives not just to excel individually, but also to uplift the team and inspire the next generation of cricketers.