Bangladesh’s new spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed arrived at Mirpur Home of Cricket at seven in the morning on Tuesday after arriving in Bangladesh the previous night. Pakistan cricket legend and former World Cup winning player has visited Bangladesh many times before. This time it’s completely different.
His arrival to be a part of Bangladesh cricket. So he got extra hospitality. Flowers are greeted at the airport. Shahriar Nafis, assistant manager of the cricket management department, handed over the team jersey in the dressing room today. He then discussed the rest of the coaching staff. Completed the formalities of his contract with.
Then the legend of Pakistan entered the world of his thoughts by walking on the green carpet of Mirpur. Mushtaq Ahmed then gave an interview on BCB’s official website. What did he say? Let’s have a look-
How do you feel back in Bangladesh?
Mushtaq Ahmed: I feel honored to be involved in the process of Bangladesh cricket. I am looking forward to start working here.
After many days came to Bangladesh?
Mushtaq Ahmed: It is always nice to come to Bangladesh. I remember I came to Bangladesh in 93-94 after the 92′ World Cup. Local people here are big fans of Pakistan cricket. He also likes the people of Pakistan. Same with us. We like to come here and play cricket. The hospitality here is great. I like food. All in all excellent. It seems that in 1998 I came as the last player to tour Bangladesh.
Must have taken responsibility for Bangladesh with a plan?
Mushtaq Ahmed: The conditions here are completely different. So cricketers should be given time to adapt and understand cricket. It’s going to be a different experience for me too. Coming here and meeting people. They are all hearty. As a coach, I can say that I have to come here and keep my standards high.
What are your expectations?
Mushtaq Ahmed: As a coach, I have to believe in myself first. I am here to make a difference. Hopefully I can make that difference. Especially in the spin section. Also, I can help young and senior cricketers to spread my experience in cricket. Hopefully we can create something different. I believe there is joy in working with people who are eager to learn. The young cricketers are quite promising. I believe they will do well and they can challenge any team.
Is it difficult to find a leg spinner?
Mushtaq Ahmed: Why not get it? (Leg Spinner). In Asian cricket you always get club cricket. Net bowler is getting. There are leg spinners, chinaman spinners. Local coaches have to take the responsibility of getting them out. That’s why we have to talk openly with them. Here my experience will come in handy. I will definitely talk to them.
Can discuss with BCB, first class coaches and club coaches. If we can find a Chinaman spinner or a leg spinner…Leg spinner is very necessary in ODI cricket now. You have to stop runs and take wickets in the middle overs. That’s why you need a variety of spinners. Hopefully we can do that.
Pray for us. May I share with these boys the ability and strength that God has given me.