The Bangladesh Cricket Board has indicated that veteran players Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah need to demonstrate strong performances to warrant their inclusion in the national ODI team.
Their recent showings in the Champions Trophy were disappointing. Mushfiqur recorded scores of 0 and 2 against India and New Zealand respectively, while Mahmudullah, recovering from an injury, scored 4 runs against New Zealand. Their game against Pakistan was rained out.
As senior members of the team, they were expected to guide the younger players during the ICC tournament held in the UAE and Pakistan. However, their shot selection, particularly in the New Zealand match, drew criticism.
Bangladesh’s overall performance in the tournament was reviewed at the BCB board meeting held on Monday at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Following this meeting, Nazmul Abedin, the BCB cricket operations chairman, addressed the question of whether Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah would be considered for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Nazmul stated that it’s a ‘very difficult question’ and emphasized that they ‘have to prove themselves’. He mentioned that selectors would consider their age and recent performances. While refraining from a definitive comment, he suggested it wouldn’t be ‘very easy’ for them.
He acknowledged their significant experience and past contributions but also noted that ‘for any player, there comes a time when the end of a career happens.’ He added that the BCB plans to discuss their future with both players.
