Bangladesh are set to participate in the ICC T20 World Cup this year with several new faces and it could potentially mark the final World Cup appearance for 38-year-old Mahmudullah and 37-year-old Shakib Al Hasan. Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto aims to create lasting memories for Shakib and Mahmudullah in this World Cup.
"I can confirm whether this will be their last World Cup or not. Its a speculation," Shanto said during a press conference at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium before the teams departure for the USA on Wednesday. "As young players, we should strive to gift them a good memory by performing well in the World Cup."
Regarding his expectations from the veteran duo, Shanto added, "I don expect anything extraordinary from Shakib and Riyad. They have specific roles in the team and if they fulfil those roles, the team will get benefit. I just want them to share their experiences with the younger players."
Bangladeshs express bowler Taskin Ahmed was named as the vice-captain. Will he be available for all the matches of the World Cup? "We anticipate Taskin will be ready from the first match of the World Cup. He is our best bowler.
If he is unavailable, we have backup options in place. Based on my assessment and the medical teams report, we expect him to be fit for the opening match," Shanto replied.
Despite his recent below-par performances, Liton Das has been included in the World Cup squad. Shanto explained the reasoning behind his inclusion saying, "It was a collective decision. Liton is a vital player for us, despite his recent struggles.
Slumps in form can happen to any cricketer. We didn want to introduce a new player abruptly, especially in such a significant event. We value his experience and hope he will perform better."
Emphasizing the role of bowlers in T20 cricket and praising his bowling unit, Shanto stated, "Our bowling department has improved significantly, especially the fast bowlers. In T20 cricket, bowlers can be the decisive factor in winning matches.
Therefore, its our strong suit. We anticipate spin-friendly wickets in the West Indies and we have a strong spin variation in our arsenal."
