Mohammad Saifuddin, the Bangladesh bowling all-rounder, said he remains ready to bat wherever the team requires, even as Dhaka Capitals struggle for momentum in the early stages of the Bangladesh Premier League.
Saifuddin, who has played all four matches for Dhaka this season, has scored 33 runs and taken three wickets. Dhaka are currently fifth in the table with two points, having won just one of their four matches.
“I have always said that because of team combination, even if I need to face the last two balls, I am mentally prepared for that,” Saifuddin said. “If the team needs me to bat higher up the order, I am ready for that too.”
He explained that batting positions are dictated by match situations and planning, including left-right combinations. With more than half the tournament still to be played, Saifuddin said opportunities could still come his way. “There are many matches left. Inshallah, the chance will come,” he added.
With the T20 World Cup drawing closer, Saifuddin was asked about the possibility of a change in Bangladesh’s World Cup venues and whether that could affect players mentally. He played down any concern.
“These things are not in our control,” he said. “We are always prepared to play at any venue. Recently we played a full T20 series in Sri Lanka-like conditions, so adapting should be easier for us. Whether it is India or Sri Lanka, we will be ready. For a big event like the World Cup, everyone is eager to play.”
Saifuddin also reflected on his own journey back into the World Cup squad after a challenging period. “Life involves struggle, whether it is cricket or personal life,” he said. “Earlier, I used to think too much about my place and my role. Now I focus on staying fit and playing freely. What is meant to happen will happen.”
Although several players from Dhaka Capitals are part of the World Cup squad, Saifuddin said discussions within the team are firmly centred on the BPL. “We are fully focused on the tournament here,” he said. “We are not performing well as a unit yet, so most of our discussions are about how to improve and move up the table.”
He also spoke about Mustafizur Rahman, describing him as “a big asset” for Bangladesh and an example for others. Saifuddin said seeing Mustafizur relaxed despite external noise was reassuring for teammates.
Finally, Saifuddin called for more sporting wickets in the BPL. “In ICC events, wickets are usually batting friendly,” he said. “Chasing 200 or defending 170 or 180 is good preparation for us. It is challenging, but it helps us get ready for international cricket and big tournaments.”
