Dhaka: Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto wants senior cricketers Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad to share their experience with the young players, rather than taking any extra pressure. Both Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah played an important role in taking Bangladesh to the semifinal of the last Champions Trophy in England in 2017, with the latter hitting a century against New Zealand in a ‘do or die’ game. As another Champions Trophy approaches, Shanto believes the duo’s experience will be key.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shanto emphasized the importance of Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah during a pre-tournament conference, stating, “Both are important players and played in the last Champions Trophy. Their experience is certainly valuable.” He further highlighted the importance of teamwork, saying, “It’s obviously not good to rely on any specific player. And as a captain, I don’t do it. I think we have to play as a team. Whoever plays should take responsibility and contribute to winning the game.”
Shanto also reiterated the value of the senior players’ experience, stating, “Mahmudullah Riyad Bhai and Mushfiq Bhai’s experience should be shared with everyone on the field. They have vast knowledge of the game and the tournament, and it will help us in many ways.” Bangladesh is set to start the tournament by taking on India in Dubai on February 20. India will be without their key player Jasprit Bumrah, as the fast bowler was ruled out of the team due to an injury. Despite Bumrah’s absence, Shanto remains focused on team strategy rather than individual players.
Shanto remarked, “Every team has capable players. Each team has its own X-factor. But I don’t want to plan based on individuals. The entire team has a plan on how to handle different players. We always have an overall team plan.”