Following the lawmaker’s removal from Bangladesh and his clearance to play for the national team in the two-Test series against Pakistan, Bangladesh’s spin coach Mushtaq Ahmed stated that Shakib Al Hasan has been a staunch advocate for the squad’s younger players.
Days after the Bangladesh Parliament was dissolved, Shakib, a former MP in Sheikh Hasina’s administration, was authorized by the interim government to join the team in Pakistan for the two Test series.
Shakib is said to make all of the decisions for the Bangladeshi squad and led them in the ODI World Cup last year, having continued to serve as an elected MPA in Shaikh Hasina’s administration, the prime minister who was overthrown.
The 37-year-old and Tamim Iqbal had a falling out, with the latter criticising the senior opener for prioritising his own needs over those of the team. Iqbal was left off of the 2023 World Cup roster due to health concerns.
However, Mushtaq maintained that Shakib, along with other experienced players like Taskin Ahmed and Mushfiqur Rahim, were contributing significantly to the team.
“Shakib and even Mushfiq and Taskin they are all supportive of the youngsters in the team specially those touring Pakistan for the first time,” he told a media conference in Lahore on Thursday.
Mushtaq also described the current Bangladesh side as a very “coachable” side.
“By this I mean the players are enthusiastic to improve and listen to you and learn about tactics and strategies. I hope I can make a positive impact for them,” he added.
Mushtaq stated that Bangladesh was a serious opponent.
They have some excellent players, and they now have some fast bowlers as well, so I believe they are headed in the right direction. All they need to believe in themselves is that they can perform better abroad,” he stated.
