Bangladesh’s absence from the T20 World Cup has left little excitement in the country for the recently started tournament. Speaking to the media on 7 February, former captain Mahmudullah Riyad admitted that he is not particularly interested in this year’s World Cup, given that the Tigers are not participating.
Riyad, however, could not hide his disappointment over the younger players missing out on the global stage. “To be honest, Bangladesh is not there, my team is not there… naturally, the interest has decreased,” he said. “But the World Cup is a major tournament. I am sure the cricketers are missing it as well. I’ve heard from several players, and more or less everyone has discussed it. But it’s not in our hands. ‘At the end of the day, the cricketers have been deprived.”
The controversy began when Mustafizur Rahman was left out of the IPL by the BCCI, followed by Bangladesh expressing concerns about playing in India. Even after requesting a venue change due to security issues, the ICC did not act on it. Riyad feels that ultimately, the players bear the brunt of the situation. “Mustafiz is very chill about it… commenting on these things is difficult because political factors are involved. What’s done is done. At the end of the day, the players have been deprived. Since it’s the government’s decision, it’s absolutely fine.”
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board organised the Indomitable Bangladesh T20 Cup with the country’s top players. Many heavyweight names, including Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, did not feature in this three-team tournament. Speaking about missing the Odommo Cup, Riyad was entirely unbothered.
“I’m no longer a current cricketer. I’m not in contention for the national team. I’ve played my cricket, Alhamdulillah. It was a wonderful journey with the Bangladesh team. Now those who are playing for the national side, or are worthy of national selection, will participate in this tournament. I’m staying at home, doing my own things, and I’m happy with that,” he said.
Riyad also emphasised that he still intends to continue playing for as long as his body allows. “I don’t know which direction life will take. Right now, I’m enjoying life. I’m still fit, and I still want to play cricket. Everything depends on my body, fitness, and performance. If I ever feel the hunger and drive are gone, I won’t play. As long as it’s there, I’ll keep playing.”
Reflecting on his career, he added: “It depends on many factors, so nothing can be said for certain right now. By the grace of Allah, I had the privilege of playing for Bangladesh for 18 years. Now there’s the BPL, the Premier League, and if I get opportunities in some franchise leagues as well… I’m enjoying it all, Alhamdulillah.”
