My Role is Very Important for the Team: Mehidy Hasan Miraz

After a 92-run defeat in the first match, Bangladesh will face Afghanistan again tomorrow on the same ground in Sharjah. Despite Afghanistan's formidable bowling attack, Bangladesh still has a chance to make a comeback, says Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who urged fans not to lose hope yet as two matches remain.

Bangladesh last played an ODI eight months ago against Sri Lanka in March. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Miraz highlighted that the team still has a chance to bounce back.

"We still have a chance; there are two more matches. Instead of focusing on both, the next one is crucial, especially as we’re on the back foot. It’s been 7-8 months since our last ODI, so getting back into the format takes some adjustment. But now we’ve gotten an idea about the pitch," he said.

Miraz acknowledged the strong start from Bangladesh’s pacers but admitted he was disappointed with his own bowling performance.

"Our pacers gave us a good start. I couldn’t meet the expectations from my end. If Rishad and I had taken a couple of wickets in the middle overs, it would have made things easier. Although I didn’t give away many runs, the team counts on me to take wickets, which is critical. Taking wickets and scoring runs is essential for the team's success," he explained.

Miraz mentioned challenges while batting with Najmul Hossain Shanto and noted that the sudden change in pitch behavior affected their play. He reflected on his dismissal, saying he should have finished the game once set.

"When Shanto and I were batting, the wicket seemed easy. But after the 20th over, when the ball got older and softer, it suddenly started to turn more. Both of us were struggling even after being set. One of us should have finished the match. When we started having issues, I told Shanto it would be even harder for the incoming batters. The pitch had suddenly turned slow and unpredictable, making it unclear which ball would turn or go straight. That was our mistake as set batters."

Due to injury, veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Mushfiqur Rahim is out for the remaining two matches. His place may be taken by Zakir Ali Anik. Miraz expressed sympathy for Mushfiqur's absence and wished Zakir well.

"It's unfortunate that Mushfiq bhai got injured. Everyone knows how important he is for the team. We don’t have many options left. Liton Das is unwell; if he were here, it would have balanced the team. Wishing Zakir the best—this is a good opportunity for him. If he can give his best, it’ll be great for his career and the country."

Miraz also reminded fans of Bangladesh's past victories over Afghanistan.

"We’ve beaten Afghanistan many times. Our first ODI World Cup win was against them. We won a series at home. Losing one match doesn’t mean everything’s over. Every team in international cricket is strong, and no opponent should be underestimated. We’re trying. One bad match doesn’t erase our capability. The pitch didn’t behave as expected, and the set batters should have taken responsibility," Miraz concluded.