🏏 Ashraful Returns to Bangladesh Setup as Batting Coach for Ireland Series

DHAKA, BANGLADESH — Former Bangladesh national cricketer Mohammad Ashraful has been appointed as the new batting coach for the upcoming home series against Ireland. This move marks Ashraful's return to the national dressing room for the first time since he was banned in 2014 for match-fixing during the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

Ashraful replaces senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin, who had been overseeing the batting unit following the departure of former batting coach David Hemp.

Focus on Experience and Coaching Credentials The decision to bring Ashraful, a former national team captain, into the coaching staff was confirmed by Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officials.

"Ashraful has the experience—that's a given. He has already completed the coaching courses, and mainly his experience was the key for us in this role," said former left-arm spinner and current BCB Director Abdur Razzak during a press conference at Mirpur Sher-e Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

Ashraful has previously served as a batting coach in various domestic roles and notably guided the Rangpur Riders batting unit on two occasions in the Global Super League.

Razzak Takes Team Director Role Alongside Ashraful's appointment, Abdur Razzak will take on the role of Team Director for the duration of the Ireland home series.

"My role will be like any other team director's role. I will observe, keep an eye on things, and if anyone needs any help, I'll provide it," Razzak explained regarding his new responsibilities.

Razzak also clarified that the appointment does not signal a performance issue with the existing staff, confirming that Mohammad Salahuddin will continue to fulfill his duties as the senior assistant coach. "Salahuddin bhai is the senior assistant coach. There wasn't any discussion about anyone failing to do their job or anything like that. And no one has been sacked from their post," he added.

Ireland is scheduled to play a two-match Test series alongside three T20Is in Bangladesh starting in November. (NewsCenter)