Mashrafe: Mushfiq shouldn’t be pressurized

Bangladesh ODI captain Mashrafe bin Mortaza said wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim should be left alone, and that everyone should remember his contributions for Bangladesh cricket.

In the recent past, Mushfiq made the news following his meeting with the national selection panel.

As per reports, Mushfiq was told in the meeting that he would not be made a part of the second ODI squad against Zimbabwe if he had not agreed to take part in the last leg of the Pakistan tour this April, comprising one ODI and the second and final Test match in Karachi.

Mushfiq however, remained adamant with his previous decision of not traveling to Pakistan, which was driven by concerns with the security situation.

The right-handed batsman is unlikely to be a part of the third and final ODI roster against Zimbabwe Friday at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium as the team management is apparently mulling a combination that would also be put up against Pakistan in the lone ODI on April 1.

Mashrafe makes a point to Mushfiq BCB

The decision however, can very well be altered if insisted by Mashrafe, who stepped down as ODI captain Thursday.

“These are some technical decisions. Even the captain cannot take these decisions. I personally think, even if Mushfiq goes through a bad phase, I have to think first the amount of runs he has scored for the team,” Mashrafe told reporters at a press conference Thursday.

“His contribution behind Bangladesh’s victories; You all know he is one of the best cricketers at No 4  position. If we consider everything, the guys who have been performing for so long, who have played for 12-13 years for Bangladesh – we should ensure that they should not be under any mental pressure.

“But the process, if he was made to understand it properly, then I think there would not be much to discuss about. I mean a proper discussion, so that Mushfiq won’t feel pressurized and the board’s plan would also be successful. If they are able to come that point, that will be better.”

Following Bangladesh Cricket Board’s decision to send the national team to Pakistan in three phases, it was only Mushfiq who opted out, along with a few members of the coaching staff.