Mushfiqur Rahims ODI return discussion ends as he announces final decision

A long-running discussion involving former teammates, repeated comments, and speculation has finally come to an end as former Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim made his stance clear regarding a possible return to the national ODI side.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference at the Sylhet International Stadium, Mushfiqur Rahim clarified his position.

Regarding the offer of a possible return to the ODI setup, he said,

‘Regarding ODI cricket, as you said…yes, I did receive a message. I believe Bangladesh are now at a stage, and will continue to be at a stage in the future, where my kind of service will not be needed.’

During last month’s New Zealand series, Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz had suggested that having Mushfiqur Rahim in the team would make the captain’s job easier.

Explaining his earlier remarks, Miraz said,

‘Having a player like Mushfiqur bhai in the team makes the captain’s job easier. Looking at his fitness, it could be said that he could have played a bit longer. However, since he has already retired, I respect that decision. I spoke as captain (regarding a possible return), since he is playing Tests.’

He later added a more realistic perspective on the situation, stating,

‘Since he has already retired, as a captain it is not a one-man decision, it involves everyone. It was a matter of discussion among all. Since he has retired, it should be respected.’