Ashraful confident in experienced batting line-up ahead of Test series

Newly appointed Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Ashraful has expressed strong confidence in the Tigers’ batting lineup ahead of the upcoming Test series.
Despite ongoing discussions about the inconsistency of Bangladesh’s middle and lower-middle order, Ashraful believes the Test team possesses the depth and experience needed to deliver strong performances.

“Since our first match is a Test match, and if you look at the Test team, I would say everyone in the team is very experienced and a performer,” Ashraful told reporters on Thursday. “Mushfiq has already played 98 Tests, Mominul has played over 70, and players like Shanto, Litton, and Miraz have been playing for nearly 10 to 12 years. So, I believe the Test team’s batting is very experienced, and if they play their best, I hope there won’t be much of a problem. Since the first match is a Test, I believe our players will produce big innings.”

Ashraful’s appointment comes at a crucial time, as Bangladesh prepares for a busy international schedule and looks to rebuild confidence following recent batting struggles. However, the former captain appears unfazed by the responsibility and external criticism, insisting that pressure is an inevitable part of the job.

“Look, everyone can give their personal opinion; I have nothing to say about that,” he said when asked about remarks made by a former cricketer. “He played under me when I was captain, and I know he is a good person. Pressure will always be there; in any profession, you have to deal with it. If you want to work in a result-oriented way, you must handle pressure.”

Ashraful reflected on his long international career and how his past experiences have prepared him for this new challenge. 

“I’ve played international cricket for 13 years and faced all kinds of pressure, even personal challenges in my life that I’ve had to overcome. So, I’m not too worried about this. Wherever I go, I try to work honestly and give my 100%. Everyone who knows me knows that I always give my best effort, and I’ll continue to do the same now,” he concluded.