Shakib–Mushfiq–Riyad’s Absence Felt in Middle Order, Coach Salahuddin Asks for Patience

For years, Bangladesh’s ODI middle order relied on the experienced trio of Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah Riyad—three of the greatest names in the country’s cricket history. Especially in the middle and death overs, they were a symbol of stability. But with none of them in the current squad, head coach Salahuddin believes it will take time to fill the void.

In a recent interview with Cricbuzz, Salahuddin said, “There are still some calculations to be made in the ODI team. Many factors need to be considered. In one-day cricket, you generally depend more on experienced players. If you look at the middle order, for years Shakib, Mushfiq, and Mahmudullah occupied those positions. Right now, we haven’t been able to establish anyone there permanently.”

He added, “Moreover, those currently playing in these positions in the national team don’t even bat there regularly in domestic cricket. In ODIs, you often have to switch roles quickly. If wickets fall, you have to play one way; if they don’t, you play another. Your role changes after 10 overs, and again after 30 overs. The demands of the game shift, and you have to adapt accordingly. That’s where experience comes in.”

In the recent series against Sri Lanka, Bangladesh played without Mushfiq, Riyad, and Shakib. Liton Das batted at number four in the first ODI, followed by Towhid Hridoy in the next two matches. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Zakir Ali Anik, and Shamim Hossain Patwary were tasked with middle-order and finisher duties. While these young batters are still inexperienced on the international stage, Salahuddin is in favor of giving them time to develop into dependable performers.