Former Bangladesh captain Mohammad Ashraful has been appointed as the national batting coach ahead of the home series against Ireland. Returning to the team for the first time since his 2014 ban, Ashraful brings extensive experience from domestic cricket and the Global Super League, aiming to strengthen Bangladesh’s batting line-up and mentor young players for upcoming international challenges.
Mohammad Ashraful Returns as Bangladesh Batting Coach
Bangladesh cricket has welcomed back a familiar face as Mohammad Ashraful has been appointed the national batting coach ahead of the upcoming home series against Ireland. This series, which includes two Test matches and three T20Is scheduled for November, will be Ashraful’s first involvement with the national team since his ban in 2014 over match-fixing allegations in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
Mohammad Ashraful succeeds Mohammad Salahuddin, the senior assistant coach who had been managing the batting unit since the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) parted ways with former coach David Hemp. With years of domestic and international experience, Ashraful’s appointment brings a wealth of knowledge to the national side, particularly in grooming young batsmen and refining the technique of established players.
Before this appointment, Mohammad Ashraful had served as a batting coach in multiple domestic tournaments and the Global Super League, guiding the Rangpur Riders’ batting lineup on two occasions. His work at these levels has been widely praised, highlighting his ability to mentor players and enhance team performance. His return to the national dressing room is seen as a positive step for Bangladesh cricket, aiming to strengthen its batting line-up ahead of challenging international fixtures.
Former left-arm spinner and current BCB director Abdur Razzak will take charge as the team director for the Ireland series. During a press conference at the Mirpur Sher-e Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Razzak emphasized Ashraful’s experience and coaching qualifications as key factors behind his appointment. “Ashraful has the experience – that’s a given. He has already completed the coaching courses, and mainly his experience was the key for us in this role,” Razzak said.
He also clarified that Mohammad Salahuddin will continue his role as the senior assistant coach. “Salahuddin bhai is the senior assistant coach. There wasn’t any discussion about anyone failing to do their job or anything like that. No one has been sacked from their post,” Razzak added, underlining that Ashraful’s arrival is meant to strengthen, not replace, the existing coaching structure.
Regarding his own responsibilities, Razzak stated, “My role will be like any other team director’s role. I will observe, keep an eye on things, and if anyone needs any help, I’ll provide it. If they need anything, I’ll try to help.” This approach is expected to provide a supportive environment for the players while allowing the coaches to focus on improving specific areas of the team’s performance.
The Bangladesh team will look to leverage Mohammad Ashraful’s expertise, particularly in the batting department, as they prepare to host Ireland for both Test and T20I series. Ashraful’s return not only signifies a redemption chapter in his cricketing career but also provides an experienced mentor for Bangladesh’s younger talents, helping them perform at the international level with confidence and consistency.
FAQ
When will Mohammad Ashraful begin his role as Bangladesh batting coach?
Ashraful has been appointed ahead of Bangladesh’s home series against Ireland, which includes two Tests and three T20Is scheduled for November.
Who did Ashraful replace as batting coach?
He replaces Mohammad Salahuddin in the role of national batting coach, though Salahuddin continues as senior assistant coach.
Has Ashraful worked as a coach before?
Yes, he has coached in domestic competitions and the Global Super League, including two stints with the Rangpur Riders.
What is Abdur Razzak’s role in the upcoming series?
Razzak will act as the team director, observing, guiding, and supporting players and coaches during the series.
Why is Ashraful’s return significant?
It marks his return to the national team after his 2014 ban, bringing experience and mentorship to strengthen Bangladesh’s batting lineup.