Mushtaq Ahmed to be available for Tigers in Pakistan series

Shakib, Taskin, Ebadot likely to be available

FE Team | Published: August 01, 2024 00:58:19

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that former Pakistani leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed will be available as the spin bowling coach for Bangladesh's upcoming series against Pakistan, reports UNB.
Mushtaq, who signed a short-term contract with BCB in April, had impressed the board during his tenure for the T20 World Cup. Consequently, BCB expressed interest in extending his contract.
However, Mushtaq's new commitment with the England Under-19 team created uncertainty about his availability. Addressing this, Jalal Yunus, BCB's Head of Cricket Operations, assured reporters outside the BCB office that Mushtaq will indeed join the team for the Pakistan series.
"Mushtaq Ahmed is available for the Pakistan series," Yunus confirmed.
"He has prior commitments and won't be available for the subsequent series until December. We are hopeful to negotiate a long-term contract starting January," Yunus said.
Meanwhile, despite his busy schedule in franchise cricket, all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan will be available for the Tests. Shakib missed the preparatory sessions in Chattogram but is set to join the team either directly from Dubai or after a brief practice session in Dhaka.
"Shakib is available for the Tests," confirmed Jalal Yunus, BCB's Head of Cricket Operations.
The team also received positive news regarding pacer Taskin Ahmed. Taskin, who withdrew from the last Test series against Sri Lanka, has shown good progress and is under consideration for the Pakistan tour.
"Taskin had an evaluation yesterday, and he's being considered for the red-ball squad," Yunus stated. "The selectors will make the final decision, but he is in contention."
The board is also hopeful about the recovery of fast bowler Ebadot Hossain. Ebadot, who has been out of action due to a long-term injury, is making steady progress.