Gazi Ashraf: ‘We followed what the team wanted’ on Shamim recall

Selectors have recalled left-handed batter Shamim Hossain for the third and final T20 International against Ireland, adding both firepower and fresh intrigue to the ongoing debate over the team’s selection process. 

The series decider will be held on Tuesday at the Bir Shrestha Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram, with the contest level at 1-1.

Shamim, who has played 46 T20Is, was initially dropped from the squad for the first two games — a decision that sparked a rare public disagreement between captain Litton Das and the national selectors. 

Litton openly expressed frustration at not being informed about the change, questioning the logic behind removing one of the few left-handers from Bangladesh’s middle order.

Just two days later, Shamim is back — a turnaround that has raised eyebrows and renewed questions about communication and coordination within the team’s cricketing structure.

Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu, however, maintained a measured stance when asked about the recall, suggesting it was based on what the team currently requires.

“We followed what the team wanted. I don’t want to say anything more in detail. Hopefully, he will play and you will be able to see that,” Gazi Ashraf told Daily Sun on Sunday.

He also defended the decision to initially bring in right-hander Mahidul Islam Ankon, reiterating that squad selection and playing XI decisions are separate responsibilities.

“We don’t have a role in selecting the playing XI — that’s the team management’s responsibility. We picked him based on our own thinking,” he said. “Now the BPL is coming up, and people will be able to see his performances there.”

The recall gives Bangladesh an additional option to counter Ireland’s match-ups in the middle overs, particularly with left-right balance likely to be crucial on a Chattogram pitch which has been good for batting.

Shamim is expected to travel from Dhaka later on Sunday and could slot straight into the XI if the team management decides to add more aggression to the batting unit.