Talha Jubair was fast-tracked into international cricket in July 2002 when he shared the new ball at the age of 16 years and 223 days in a Test match against Sri Lanka. He removed Marvan Atapattu and Mahela Jayawardene in his first spell, though Bangladesh were mauled through the rest of the game. When he took four wickets in only his second ODI, against South Africa, there were suggestions that Bangladesh may have unearthed a genuine fast-bowling hope, but injuries brought Talha's career to a standstill ever since he returned from the 2003 World Cup.

Bowling off a shortish run-up and with a whippy action, the rigors of international cricket took a huge toll, as his wiry frame was never supported by stronger muscles. A stress fracture at the back laid him low for a considerable period. He made a comeback against India in December 2004 - nearly two years after the World Cup in South Africa - but was quickly dropped after a wicketless innings.

Talha was one of two fast bowlers promoted by West Indies legend Andy Roberts (the other being Mashrafe Mortaza), but he never lived up to his promise. Long after being shunned for the national team, he was still lumbering through domestic cricket.
Mohammad Isam