Mustafiz is the hero, says Mahmudullah

Mahmudullah Riyad feted Mustafizur Rahman as a 'hero' for his outstanding performance in Asia Cup on Sunday, reports bdnews24.com.

The appreciation came as Mahmudullah was named 'Man of the Match' for his contributions with the bat and ball in the Super Four game.

Mustafiz, the left-arm Bangladeshi pacer, conceded only four runs off the final over, where Afghanistan had needed eight runs, keeping Bangladesh's hopes alive in the Asia Cup.

Mustafiz contributed a lot by facing the danger at the tail end, but Mahmudullah also had a significant hand in the achievement. He had steadied the team with a 128-run partnership with left-handed Imrul Kayes after the team lost 5 wickets in 87 runs.

Mahmudullah focused on Mustafiz's bowling in the final over of the match and heaped praise on him for his nerve.

"It was a turning point for us. It might seem that our partnership was more crucial, but it is not easy to tackle six balls without giving away eight runs. But the way Mustafiz bowled was excellent."

Mahmudullah also praised Mustafiz for overcoming other difficulties. He said Mustafiz had been suffering from cramps in his legs due to the terrific heat during the match.