Mehidy Hasan Miraz has offered candid reflections on two of Bangladesh cricket’s most experienced figures—Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim—on the eve of the national side’s opening One Day International against New Zealand.
Shakib Al Hasan, widely regarded as one of Bangladesh’s greatest cricketers, last represented the national team in October 2024. Since then, he has been absent from international duty and has not featured alongside senior teammates such as Miraz and Mushfiq. His continued absence, coupled with his inability to return to the country due to broader off-field circumstances, has kept his future involvement a subject of regular discussion within cricketing circles. Despite being away from the squad, Shakib’s name continues to surface whenever Bangladesh’s team composition is debated, underlining his enduring influence on the national setup.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand, Miraz emphasised that Shakib’s situation does not disrupt the dressing room environment. He stressed that decisions regarding the all-rounder rest entirely with the Bangladesh Cricket Board and are not something that affects the players’ professional focus.
Mushfiqur Rahim, another stalwart of Bangladesh cricket, has also recently been in the spotlight following his retirement from One Day Internationals after the Champions Trophy earlier this year. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter’s departure from the format marked the end of a long and influential ODI career.
Interestingly, Miraz himself had recently expressed that he would have welcomed Mushfiq’s continued presence in the side, highlighting the value of his experience and leadership. However, in his latest remarks, the Bangladesh captain struck a more measured tone, fully respecting the decision taken by the senior cricketer and acknowledging his retirement as final.
He noted that having a player of Mushfiqur’s calibre in the squad naturally makes leadership responsibilities easier, but reiterated that the team must now move forward with respect for the decision made.
Player Overview
| Player |
Current Status |
Last ODI Appearance |
Role |
Key Note |
| Shakib Al Hasan |
Unavailable since 2024 |
October 2024 |
All-rounder |
Continues to be discussed despite absence |
| Mushfiqur Rahim |
Retired from ODIs |
Champions Trophy 2026 |
Wicketkeeper-batter |
Retirement decision respected by team |
| Mehidy Hasan Miraz |
Active (Captain) |
Ongoing |
All-rounder / Captain |
Leading Bangladesh in transition phase |
As Bangladesh prepare to face New Zealand in the opening match of the series, attention remains fixed not only on the contest itself but also on how the team continues to evolve in the absence of some of its most experienced figures. Miraz’s remarks reflect a side in transition—balancing respect for senior contributors with the practical demands of moving forward in international cricket.
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