Bangladesh's assistant coach, Mohammad Salahuddin, believes that national skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto will not lack confidence in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, despite being sidelined in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). The discussion surrounding Najmul's form and his absence from the playing XI has raised concerns, but Salahuddin remains optimistic about his mental preparedness.
Najmul's Struggles in BPL
Najmul, who is part of the defending champions in BPL, has struggled for form, registering scores of 0, 9, 4, 41, and 2 in the five matches he played. As a result, he has been left out of the playing XI, and it appears unlikely that he will get another opportunity in the tournament.
After Fortune Barishal’s win against Dhaka Capitals in their 11th game on January 29, skipper Tamim Iqbal addressed the issue, stating that it was unfortunate not to include Najmul in the playing XI.
"I must say it's unfortunate because I could not give him the chances he deserved. If you see my team, it is difficult to get the combination right. Against Rangpur, he played a good innings of 41 runs, but due to the team combination, I could not fit him in. His attitude towards the team has been fantastic, and he remains one of the best players in Bangladesh," Tamim said.
Confidence Ahead of Champions Trophy
With Najmul set to lead Bangladesh in the upcoming Champions Trophy, concerns have emerged regarding his confidence due to a lack of match time in BPL. However, Salahuddin dismissed such worries, emphasizing that format differences and preparation will play a more significant role.
"We cannot say what will boost or hamper someone's confidence. BPL is T20 cricket, and the Champions Trophy is a 50-over format. If someone continuously fails, their confidence will take a hit, but Najmul has been actively preparing," Salahuddin told Cricbuzz.
He further added, "He isn't sitting idly. He will have a different role in the Champions Trophy. Confidence is a personal mindset—if he believes in himself, he will perform. Our job as the coaching staff is to ensure he is mentally prepared for the tournament."
Future of Senior Players – Mushfiqur Rahim & Mahmudullah
Aside from Najmul, discussions have emerged regarding the future of veteran players Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah. Many speculate that the Champions Trophy could be their last major ICC event. However, Salahuddin believes their careers should be determined by performance, not age.
"Fitness is not an issue in modern-day cricket. Athletes maintain high fitness levels for extended periods. Their right to play for Bangladesh should be performance-based. If they continue delivering, they deserve to play. The board and head coach may have different policies, but in my opinion, age doesn’t matter," he stated.
Reddy Anna Match Prediction – Champions Trophy Impact
Najmul's performance in the Champions Trophy will be crucial for Bangladesh’s campaign. While his form in BPL raises concerns, his leadership and ability to adapt to the 50-over format will be tested. According to Reddy Anna Match Prediction, Bangladesh’s success will largely depend on their captain’s ability to lead from the front and regain his scoring touch.
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