Since being appointed as the batting coach of the Bangladesh national cricket team, Mohammad Ashraful has faced mixed reactions from the cricketing fraternity and fans alike. The controversy intensified after pacer Rubel Hossain posted a cryptic message on Facebook, which many interpreted as a critique of Ashraful’s appointment. Finally, Ashraful has addressed the matter himself.
Immediately after Ashraful’s appointment was announced, Rubel Hossain wrote on Facebook: “The cricket board is now free from accountability.” He added, “Coming back to a ground that once lost faith and now returning to teach there, life truly is like a movie, and time is indeed strange! Those who were once removed as examples are now here to set examples!”
Although Rubel did not mention anyone by name, it was widely understood that the post was directed at Ashraful. Responding to questions about Rubel’s comments, Ashraful stated, “I am not exactly sure whom he meant. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.”
Reflecting on his past, he said, “What has happened in my life, I have faced it openly. That chapter is behind me, and now I am here.”
Ashraful was banned in 2013 over spot-fixing allegations. Although he returned to cricket after serving his ban, he did not immediately rejoin the national side. He subsequently completed a Level-3 coaching course in Abu Dhabi, UAE. He has served as the assistant coach for Rangpur Riders in the BPL, primarily handling batting duties, and also as head coach for Barishal in the NCL T20 tournament.
Regarding the criticism over a previously banned player returning to the national dressing room, Ashraful clarified: “I have no issue with it. Everything that needed to happen has already happened. It’s not like I am the only person in the world to have faced consequences for these matters. I am simply the first to publicly admit my involvement in fixing. No one else in the world has done so.”
Ashraful is set to begin his new role in the national team’s dressing room during the upcoming home series against Ireland, marking a fresh chapter in the career of Bangladesh’s once-starred cricketer.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mohammad Ashraful |
| Role | National Team Batting Coach |
| Past Ban | 2013, spot-fixing |
| Coaching Courses | Level-3, Abu Dhabi |
| Previous Coaching Roles | Rangpur Riders (Assistant Coach), Barishal (Head Coach, NCL T20) |
| Upcoming Assignment | Bangladesh vs Ireland Home Series |
Ashraful’s return to the national setup is widely seen as an opportunity for him to bring his experience and expertise to nurture the team’s batting unit, while also proving his resilience and commitment to the sport.