Mosaddek returns to ODI team after almost four years

Sports Desk

Bangladesh have recalled all-rounder Mosaddek Hossain for the first two matches of the three-match ODI series against Australia, which begins on June 9 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.

The 30-year-old last played an ODI in August 2022 against Zimbabwe at home and had not been selected in the format since then. His most recent appearance for the national team came later that year during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

Mosaddek’s return comes at the expense of Afif Hossain and wicketkeeper-batter Mahidul Islam Ankon, who have been left out of the 15-member squad.

Since returning to the national side, Afif has struggled to regain form and failed to make a significant impact in the recent series against New Zealand. Ankon, meanwhile, was included in several recent squads but did not earn a place in the playing XI.

The three-match ODI series will be played on June 9, 11 and 14, with all matches scheduled to take place in Mirpur.

Wicketkeeper-batter Nurul Hasan Sohan, whose last ODI appearance came against the West Indies in a home series in October last year, has replaced Ankon in the squad.

Chief selector Habibul Bashar said the changes were made as part of a strategic adjustment to the team.

In a BCB video message, Bashar said: “We cannot say that we gave Ankon or Afif an abundance of opportunities. I believe Afif deserves more chances. However, at this moment we are making some tactical adjustments, which is why these two changes were necessary.”

He added: “Mosaddek is batting very well. His performance at No. 6 will be valuable for us. He is an experienced player and has been in excellent form in the Dhaka Premier League. We will also benefit from his abilities as an all-rounder. His bowling is quite effective, and his presence will improve the team’s balance.”

Bashar also noted that Ankon has been most successful as a top-order batter in the Dhaka Premier League. The selectors therefore opted for Sohan because of his greater experience in the lower middle order, particularly at No. 6 or No. 7.

Bangladesh Squad:

• Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain)
• Soumya Sarkar
• Saif Hassan
• Tanzid Hasan
• Najmul Hossain Shanto
• Towhid Hridoy
• Litton Das
• Mosaddek Hossain
• Nurul Hasan
• Rishad Hossain
• Tanvir Islam
• Mustafizur Rahman
• Taskin Ahmed
• Shoriful Islam
• Nahid Rana