What Mustafiz told coach Salahuddin after missing out on the IPL

Bangladesh may be absent from the international cricket stage for now, but the domestic scene is buzzing with excitement. Security concerns prevented the national team from participating in the T20 World Cup in India. To keep players match-fit and provide them with competitive exposure, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is organizing the Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup 2026. Muhammad Salahuddin has been appointed head coach of the Dhumketu XI, and ahead of the tournament, he spoke at a press conference about Bangladesh’s absence from the World Cup and the significance of the tournament.

Salahuddin said,
“I am not playing in the World Cup. But I am not the kind of person who will die frustrated just because I missed something. I do not know whether I will survive tomorrow or not. But instead of worrying about the future, I am trying to make the best of my current situation and improve my performance in the game.”
Through this statement, he emphasized that maintaining a competitive mindset and making the most of the present is more important than dwelling on missed opportunities.

When asked about Mustafizur Rahman, Salahuddin explained that he had asked Mustafiz directly,
“What are you really feeling?”
Mustafiz responded,
“What has gone, has gone. I don’t think everyone can be like Mustafiz. But if that happens, it will be good for that boy, that player. Because I will not try to control something I cannot control.”
This exchange highlighted the importance of self-awareness and mental resilience in Salahuddin’s approach to coaching.

He further added,
“Worried people are a big problem. Can you guarantee that you will survive tomorrow? Why are you dying in so much worry?”
With this remark, Salahuddin stressed the need for psychological stability among players, which he considers essential for success in the tournament.

From his comments, it is clear that the Dhumketu XI tournament is more than just a series of matches. Salahuddin views it as a platform to develop the skills and experience of Bangladesh’s top cricketers. He added,
“Bangladesh’s best players are playing here. It is very important. That is how we are seeing it.”