Legendary Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed joins Bangladesh team as spin trainer

Mushtaq Ahmed, a former leg-spinner for Pakistan, has returned to coaching the Bangladeshi national squad. For the next two-Test series against South Africa, the seasoned spinner will act as the spin bowling consultant.

Mushtaq has previously played for the Bangladeshi squad. He had previously worked with the team during their trip to Pakistan and the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Although he was unable to join the coaching staff for the India tour due to other engagements, Mushtaq had stated that he would be happy to rejoin the Bangladesh squad after his duties were over.

An intense net session at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on October 19 marked Mushtaq Ahmed return to the Bangladeshi camp.

The consultant was seen giving the cricket players advice and having in-depth conversations with Phil Simmons, the recently hired head coach who took Chandika Hathurusingha’s place.

For this [South Africa] series, he (Mushtaq) is present. He will work with us series by series this year, whenever he is free and has no prior obligations. He is here at the moment, and we’ll see what transpires in the upcoming series,” a BCB official said.

Shakib Al Hasan has been replaced by uncapped Hasan Murad for the first South Africa Test.

Long-term retention of Mushtaq’s services is important to the BCB. Depending on availability and mutual agreement, another official made a suggestion that he might be offered a long-term contract at the end of this year. Mushtaq might end up being a regular member of Bangladesh’s coaching staff as a result of this possible agreement.

Mushtaq’s participation in forthcoming series, including the ODIs against Afghanistan and the West Indies tour, is still up in the air. His availability and the BCB’s intentions will determine whether or not he participates.

Also Read: Bangladesh has named Hasan Murad as Shakib Al Hasan’s replace for 1st South Africa Test

A change has been made to the BCB’s roster for the opening Test match against South Africa. Shakib Al Hasan, a seasoned all-rounder, has been replaced by Hasan Murad, an uncapped left-arm spinner. With 136 wickets in 30 first-class games since making his debut in 2021, Murad has made an impression in domestic cricket.