The Ireland cricket team is set to visit Bangladesh later this month for a series that will feature two Tests and three T20s. For this series, Bangladesh has appointed former cricketer Mohammad Ashraful as the team’s batting coach. Ashraful, who remains the youngest-ever centurion in Test cricket history, will take on this new role after a period of coaching at various levels. Additionally, former Bangladesh cricketer and current Director of Women’s Cricket, Abdur Razzak, will assume the role of Team Director.
The decision was made during a meeting of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Board of Directors today. Following the meeting, BCB Director and Head of the Media Committee, Amjad Hossain, shared the news at a press conference.
Ashraful, a former captain of the national team, is currently serving as the head coach of the Barishal Division team in the National Cricket League (NCL). Previously, he worked as the assistant coach for the franchise team Rangpur Riders and also coached the Dhaka-based Premier League team, Dhanmondi Club.
Abdur Razzak explained the rationale behind appointing Ashraful, saying, “Ashraful has a wealth of experience and has already completed his coaching courses. His vast experience played a crucial role in our decision.”
Ashraful, clearly delighted with the new responsibility, told Prothom Alo over the phone, “I am excited. It’s a big responsibility, and I will try to use my playing and coaching experience to benefit the Bangladesh team.”
Despite Ashraful’s appointment, the previous coaching staff will remain with the team. Until now, Bangladesh did not have a dedicated batting coach, with Assistant Coach Mohammad Salahuddin fulfilling that role. When asked if Ashraful’s appointment was due to Salahuddin’s perceived failures, Razzak replied, “There has been no failure on anyone’s part, nor has anyone been replaced. We simply felt Ashraful’s expertise could add value to the team.”
Regarding his own role, Razzak commented, “My responsibilities as Team Director will be similar to any other in the role. I will observe everything and keep an eye on all aspects of the team. If the management feels they need my assistance, I will be ready to help.”
The Ireland team will play two Tests and three T20s on their tour of Bangladesh. The first Test will begin on 11th November in Sylhet, followed by the second Test at Mirpur on 19th November. The first two T20 matches will be held in Chittagong on 27th and 29th November, with the final T20 in Mirpur on 2nd December.