Former Bangladesh captain Mohammad Ashraful has expressed his excitement at returning to the national set-up, this time as batting coach, ahead of the team’s upcoming series against Ireland.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed on Monday that Ashraful will join the national coaching staff as batting coach for the series, marking a new chapter in his long and eventful association with Bangladesh cricket.
‘Feels Good To Be Back In The Dressing Room’
Having previously worked in various domestic competitions, including the Global Super League with Rangpur Riders, and in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), Ashraful said he is eager to share his experience with the national batters.
Alhamdulillah, I had been planning for the last two years that after leaving cricket, I would stay on the field and move into coaching. I want to share my experience wherever I work. I’ve worked two seasons in the Global Super League with Rangpur Riders, one year in the BPL, and this year in the NCL. So, I’ve played or worked with almost everyone who’s now in the national team, whether internationally or domestically.
The 40-year-old, who represented Bangladesh for over a decade, said returning to the national dressing room brings back fond memories.
It feels really good, I’m very happy that I’ll enter the Bangladesh dressing room again. I was part of that dressing room as a player for 13 years, played under many coaches, and learned a lot. Now I want to share that knowledge with our players.
No Friction With Salahuddin
Ashraful also brushed aside speculation of any rift with Mohammad Salahuddin, Bangladesh’s senior assistant coach, who has been overseeing the batting unit since the BCB parted ways with former batting coach David Hemp during the West Indies tour.
Reports had suggested that Salahuddin might be removed once a new batting coach was appointed, but Ashraful dismissed any such tension.
My relationship is good with everyone. I’m not like that. My relationship with Salahuddin bhai is good; we share a very healthy rapport.
Ashraful also pointed out that he had worked closely with Salahuddin in the past.
Salahuddin bhai worked with the national team when I was captain, so we know each other quite well and share mutual respect.
Looking Ahead
With the Ireland series approaching, Ashraful’s appointment marks a symbolic return for one of Bangladesh’s most talented yet controversial former cricketers — now determined to contribute from the sidelines.
His intimate understanding of the national team’s culture, and his rapport with both senior and emerging players, could make him a valuable bridge between Bangladesh’s past and its next generation of batting talent.
