Mahedi puzzled over spot in Bangladesh's first-choice XI

Mahedi puzzled over spot in Bangladesh's first-choice XI

A win will take CSK to 14 points, 2 ahead of the chasing DC © BCCI

Bangladesh all-rounder Shak Mahedi Hasan said on Saturday (November 29) that he is not sure about his non inclusion in the playing XI despite performing regularly in the shortest format. Mahedi picked 3-25 to help the hosts restrict Ireland to 170 in a game where they looked primed to post 200 on the board after racing to 75 in the powerplay.

Bangladesh skipper Litton Kumar Das then hit a brilliant half-century to help the hosts pull off their highest successful T20I run chase at home as they got the job done with two balls to spare and in the process level the series.

When asked why he has not been a regular in the Bangladesh XI despite strong performances, Mahedi looked dejected. "Actually, maybe the head coach can answer this question. Our captain can answer this," said Mahedi, who has taken 10 wickets in his last five outings.

"Those involved in our team selection can answer this. Look, my job is to play. Regarding the question you asked, it is difficult for me... Let me ask you a question: If you work for a channel one month and another channel the next month, it certainly wouldn't be comfortable for you. The same thing is difficult for me. But I am trying," he said after being overlooked in favour of Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain since the Asia Cup in September.

Mahedi added that he is yet to get a clear message from the team management as far his role in the team is concerned. "No, this has never been discussed with me (about my role in the team)," he said. "But my job is to play. Playing for Bangladesh is a matter of pride."

Mahedi credited Saifuddin for his 7-ball unbeaten 17 that came at a vital juncture at the death for the home side. Saifuddin has also been in and out of the team due to competition for spots.

"To be honest, Saifuddin is off and on, not a regular player. Also, when the top-order batters perform well, tail-enders don't always get a chance to bat. In international matches, tail-enders sometimes go long periods without batting," said Mahedi.

"If the top order scores heavily, they naturally bat higher up. In that context, Saifuddin coming in after a long gap and producing that innings was outstanding. Those two boundaries in a pressure moment were extremely important for us," he concluded