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Miraz Stands by Saif, Vows Fair Treatment for Soumya, Sohan & Jaker
Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has stepped forward to clarify the team’s batting selection approach, assuring fans and players alike that no one is being overlooked unfairly — even as Soumya Sarkar remains benched and Nurul Hasan Sohan and Jaker Ali Anik sit out of the current squad.
Soumya in the Fringe, But Not Forgotten
Soumya, once a regular in the top order, has slipped down the pecking order despite being part of the wider squad. Sohan and Jaker, meanwhile, haven’t featured in recent lineups and are currently not in the team setup. However, Miraz emphasized that their doors are far from closed.
“A batter needs proper opportunities,” Miraz stated. “You can’t judge someone after just one or two matches. If a player gets 3-4 matches in the same position and still doesn’t perform, then he will understand himself. As a captain, I want every batter to get enough chances in their role so they can figure things out. This applies to everyone.”
Why Saif Hassan Still Has the Edge
The focus has turned to Saif Hassan, who has retained his spot despite a lean run in the last series. His recent century in a practice match, however, has strengthened his case for continuity.
Miraz backed the decision to stick with Saif, stressing the importance of stability: “If we keep changing players every other game, no one will get the chance to settle. Saif has shown glimpses, and now he’s scoring runs where it counts — in practice. That confidence matters.”
Confidence in the Current Openers
Miraz expressed satisfaction with the current opening combination of Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan Tamim. The pair put on a century stand in the last series — a development Miraz sees as crucial for team momentum.
“Form is very important,” he said. “In the last series, the opening partnership crossed 100, which is a big advantage for the team. If we lose early wickets, the team comes under pressure. Sometimes even small contributions — 10, 20, or 25 runs — can make a big difference. We have to consider all these things.”
Sohan & Jaker Still in the Frame
Despite their absence, Miraz made it clear that both Sohan and Jaker remain within the team’s long-term vision.
“They were both part of the last two series,” Miraz reminded. “When we picked Sohan, he played six matches in a row — three against Afghanistan and three against West Indies. Jaker also got his chances, but at that time his form wasn’t great. Still, both of them are in our 20-player pool. It’s not like they are out of the ODI setup. They will get opportunities again.”
Staying Connected to the Setup
In a forward-looking move, Miraz suggested that players on the fringes should remain involved, even when not selected.
“For players with potential, even if they are out of form and out of the squad, I would like them to train with the national team. It helps them stay comfortable and come back stronger. That’s something we will try to ensure.”
With selection debates heating up, Miraz’s comments bring clarity — and a message of patience, fairness, and continuity — to Bangladesh’s evolving ODI batting lineup.
