Ashraful Opens Up About Mashrafe's Fitness

Former Bangladesh skipper Mohammad Ashraful criticized the BPL franchise Sylhet Strikers for including an unfit Mashrafe Bin Mortaza in the playing eleven, asserting that Mashrafe's involvement is diminishing the credibility of the tournament.

Mashrafe has been grappling with fitness issues since his return to cricket after an eight-month hiatus. His last appearance before the BPL was in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) in May 2023.

In the opening match against Chattogram Challengers, Mashrafe's use of a shortened run-up drew criticism. Despite taking a wicket with his first delivery, it only underscored the below-par quality of the tournament.

Ashraful expressed his concerns, stating, "He secured a wicket with his first delivery. When facing him, young players are unsure whether to attack him or not, as getting dismissed becomes a matter of prestige. Perhaps that's why they don't play freely."

According to Ashraful, Mashrafe was reluctant to play, but team owners insisted on his presence on the field. Ashraful believes this decision diminishes the tournament's stature, which is globally watched as a platform for future cricket stars. With the World Cup just six months away, he highlighted the presence of Rejaur Rahman Raja on the sidelines, missing an opportunity to showcase his talent for a spot in the World Cup.

Sri Lankan commentator Russell Arnold also questioned Mashrafe's fitness, expressing uncertainty about whether he was bowling medium pace or off-spin. Arnold emphasized the need for more energy and effort, criticizing Mashrafe's abbreviated bowling approach.