Bangladesh selectors have brought back middle-order batter Mosaddek Hossain to the ODI squad for the upcoming series against Australia, which begins next week, according to ESPNcricinfo. The 30-year-old last played an ODI in August 2022 and has featured in 43 matches in the format.
Changes from New Zealand Series
Mosaddek is one of two changes from the squad that faced New Zealand in April, with Nurul Hasan also returning. Mahidul Islam and Afif Hossain have been omitted from the squad announced for the first two ODIs.
Impressive Domestic Form
Mosaddek earned his recall following a stellar run in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League (DPL). In five matches, he has scored a century and two half-centuries, averaging 89, while also taking 11 wickets with his off-spin at an average of 16.27. He has maintained strong performances in the DPL over the past three seasons.
The all-rounder is expected to slot back into the middle order, having established himself as a reliable run-scorer in that position in domestic cricket. Nurul's return also strengthens Bangladesh's middle order after Mahidul and Afif failed to provide the desired contributions during the middle overs in the New Zealand series.
Selector's Comments
Chief selector Habibul Bashar explained the changes: 'We couldn't provide Afif and Mahidul with a lot of opportunities. Replacing them is a tactical change. Mosaddek could bat at No. 6. He is in good form. He has more skills to offer. He is in good form in the DPL. He also has all-round ability. He bowls quite well. He could offer a balance for us in the middle-order. Nurul Hasan is replacing Mahidul because the latter is a top-order batter. Nurul bats around No. 6 or 7 as a wicketkeeper-batter. We believe Nurul is more skillful in that position.'
Bangladesh Squad for First Two ODIs
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Mosaddek Hossain, Nurul Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.
The series against Australia is expected to be a challenging one, and Bangladesh will rely on Mosaddek's experience and form to bolster their middle order.
