Bangladesh spin bowling coach Rangana Herath has denied being part of the selection process of the Bangladesh ODI squad for the upcoming home series against visitors England. The Bangladesh Cricket Board [BCB] on Thursday declared a 14-member team with some unexpected choices that makes controversies.
Discarding batter Anamul Haque Bijoy and spinner Nasum Ahmed from the fold has once again triggered questions on the selection policy. There were common sentiments that both the players were never given enough opportunities before being axed from the national dressing room. Left-arm spinner Nasum was given place in just four ODIs before getting replaced by experienced Taijul Islam.
There is also opinion that the selections are being unconventional given a performer in one format is getting called in the national team to play a different format of the game.
Herath speaking to the media at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Sunday confirmed that he spoke to newly appointed Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha on the upcoming series but however did not discuss about team selection.
Taijul Islam's selection had come as a bit of a surprise and Herath confirmed that it was the captain Tamim Iqbal, the coach Hathurusingha and the selectors' call to pick Taijul in the squad.
“100 percent selectors' call. The coach and captain as well. Not me. If they need some advice or information, I am happy to give that,” said former Sri Lanka spinner when asked if Taijul's inclusion was solely the selectors' call.
Herath reminded that he preferred Taijul in ODIs too but reminded it was not his call to sideline Nasum Ahmed.
“I see Taijul as a guy who can bowl in ODIs. It all depends on the situation. When Shakib is there, you don't need another two left-arm spinners. So, selectors will pick either Nasum or Taijul and when performances are sort of equal, someone will have to be selected,” informed Herath.
“I always prefer to have Taijul. As I said, because he has done well in West Indies. So, I see a lot of potential in ODIs for Taijul,” he added.
Hearth during the beginning of his professional career worked under Hathurusingha as a player at Colombo's Moors Sports Club.
“Chandika has worked here before and done well during his previous stint. I have experienced playing alongside him as well as playing under him when he was coach. So, I have very positive feedback and confidence about him, and I'm sure he will help Bangladesh cricket=."