Former Pakistan legspinner Mushtaq Ahmed has rejoined the Bangladesh national cricket team’s coaching staff as the spin bowling consultant ahead of their upcoming two-Test series against South Africa. This marks his return after a brief absence due to other commitments, following his involvement during Bangladesh’s ICC T20 World Cup 2024 campaign and the tour of Pakistan earlier this year.
Mushtaq, who has extensive experience both as a player and a coach, was seen busy with the team during a net session at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Saturday (October 19). The 53-year-old was not only guiding the Bangladesh spinners but also engaging in discussions with newly appointed head coach Phil Simmons, who took over the role from Chandika Hathurusingha earlier this year.
“He [Mushtaq] is here for this series. Whenever he’s available and doesn’t have any prior commitments, he’ll work with us on a series-by-series basis,” a Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official confirmed. “Right now, he is here for the South Africa series, and we will see what happens next.”
Mushtaq had previously expressed his desire to return to the Bangladesh setup after honoring his earlier commitments. Although he missed the recent tour of India, it appears the BCB is eager to have him back for upcoming assignments. There is also the possibility of a longer-term collaboration, with one official hinting that the board is looking to offer Mushtaq a contract extending beyond this series.
“At the end of the year, we are hoping to finalize a long-term deal with Mushtaq, provided everything goes as planned,” the official added.
Mushtaq’s return is expected to provide crucial support to Bangladesh’s spinners as they prepare for the Test series against South Africa, as well as future assignments. The Bangladesh team is also scheduled to play an ODI series against Afghanistan and a tour of the West Indies later this year, but Mushtaq’s participation in those tours will depend on his availability and willingness to commit further.
As the team looks to strengthen its spin department, Mushtaq’s expertise and guidance could prove vital in shaping the future of Bangladesh’s bowling attack in the longer formats.
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