Shakib terms ‘Mahmudullah Riyad topic’ irrelevant during Asia Cup

After losing against Pakistan, Bangladesh now tasted defeat against Sri Lanka too. Meanwhile, the topic of Mahmudullah Riyad’s exclusion from the team continues to surface, with everyone interested in his potential inclusion in the World Cup or, before that, in the series against New Zealand.

Captain Shakib also addressed the Mahmudullah issue. During the press conference in Colombo after the defeat to Sri Lanka, Shakib expressed his concerns about the performances of neither Afif Hossain nor Shamim Patwari in the number seven position. When questioned about this, Shakib pointed out the journalist’s mistake, clarifying that Tawhid Hriday is currently playing in place of Riyad. He also deemed the question irrelevant, saying, “There was no Riyad bhai in the last three series. I don’t know if you raised these concerns then, but it seems irrelevant now.”

Regarding Riyad’s replacement, Shakib emphasized, “You’ve asked another incorrect question. Tawhid Hridoy was brought into the team as Mahmudullah’s replacement.”

Despite the continued interest from the audience and journalists regarding Mahmudullah’s inclusion in the team, the team’s captain, Shakib, did not express any concerns. However, no decision has been made by Shakib, the coach, or the BCB president regarding Mahmudullah’s inclusion in the team. Therefore, the answer may only become clear when the squad for the New Zealand series is announced.”