Bangladesh cricketer Saif Hassan has dismissed claims that he went into a mental coma after missing the T20 World Cup, insisting he has instead used the experience to motivate himself for upcoming series. The right-handed batter, speaking to the media in Rajshahi, explained that although missing the World Cup was heartbreaking, he has emerged stronger and focused on his cricket.
The T20 World Cup saw Bangladesh withdraw due to security concerns in India. The International Cricket Council subsequently gave Scotland the opportunity to participate in the tournament. Initially, Bangladesh’s interim government stated the decision was entirely governmental. However, Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul later indicated that the players themselves had opted out, creating confusion among cricketers, coaches, and the Bangladesh Cricket Board.
Senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin had previously commented that two players went into a mental coma after missing the tournament, which led fans to assume Saif was one of them. Speaking today, Saif clarified, “I do not know whom sir was referring to. But it was not me, I did not go into a coma. Everyone who was in the squad felt the disappointment, and there is nothing to deny about that. My focus has been on playing the Odommo Cup and returning in good shape, which has been a comforting experience.”
The Odommo Cup, a three-team domestic tournament organised by the BCB during the World Cup period, featured senior and fringe national players, giving them a platform to maintain form and showcase their skills. Saif emphasised the positive impact of the tournament, saying, “Playing in the Odommo Cup allowed me to regain confidence. Everyone in the team was hurt by missing the World Cup, but I have come out of it in a good position. That has been reassuring.”
“To be honest, I didn’t watch any World Cup games. One chance is gone. Now the focus is on the next series. If I get the chance, I want to express myself and get into a good shape again,” he said.
Saif also shared his perspective on handling professional setbacks, adding, “As a professional cricketer, the sooner you can leave the disappointment behind and turn around, the better. The break gave us an opportunity to prepare well, and I feel we have used it effectively.”
He concluded with gratitude to those who supported him mentally during the period, writing on social media, “All praise is for Allah. It was not easy to recover from the heartbreak of missing my first World Cup, a lifelong dream achieved through immense hard work and sacrifice. I am confident Allah has something better planned for all of us.”
