Mahmudullah made a return to the Bangladesh Test squad having recovered from a finger injury while 19-year old left-arm seamer Mustafizur Rahman also made his way in the 14-member team for the first Test against South Africa in Chittagong on July 21.
Mustafizur made his international debut in the three-match series against two-time world champions India in June and his 13 wickets meant Bangladesh won their first series against their neighbours. Mustafizur stunned the top Indian batsmen with his control and change of pace, winning the man-of-the-series award, and on Sunday it was the South Africans who found themselves on the receiving end in their second ODI.
He took 3-38 as South Africa were bundled out for 162, their lowest score against the hosts. Bangladesh went on to thrash the tourists by seven wickets and level the series at 1-1. Mustafizur, who has 28 wickets from 10 first-class matches, replaced Abul Hasan from the previous Tigers Test squad that played India last month.
28-year old all-rounder Mahmudullah’s return was inevitable while for Mustafizur it was a reward for his consistency, said Bangladesh Cricket Board chief selector Faruk Ahmed.
“He (Mustafizur) has shown already what he is capable of and possibly he has been the brightest find for us in recent times,” Faruk said. “He has also been playing all versions of cricket this season including four day games and we are confident that he will adjust quickly to the demands of test cricket.”
Meanwhile, Mahmudullah’s inclusion left no room for Shuvagata Hom. “Obviously his return adds depth in the batting order and some vital experience,” Faruk added.
The selectors also named an unchanged Bangladesh team for the third and final ODI against South Africa in Chittagong tomorrow.