Legendary Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed joins Bangladesh team as spin consultant

Former Pakistan leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed has rejoined the Bangladesh national team's coaching setup. The experienced spinner will serve as the spin bowling consultant for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa.

This is not Mushtaq's first stint with the Bangladesh team. He previously worked with the squad during the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and their tour of Pakistan. While other commitments prevented him from joining the coaching staff for the India tour, Mushtaq had expressed his willingness to return to the Bangladesh team once his obligations were fulfilled.

Mushtaq's return to the Bangladesh camp began with an intensive net session at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on October 19. The consultant was observed providing guidance to the cricketers and engaging in lengthy discussions with the newly appointed head coach, Phil Simmons, who recently replaced Chandika Hathurusingha.

"He( Mushtaq) is here for this [South Africa] series. This year, whenever he is available and does not have any prior commitments, he will work series by series with us. Right now, he is here, we'll see what happens in the next series," a BCB official told Cricbuzz.

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The BCB is keen on securing Mushtaq's services for the long term. Another official hinted at the possibility of offering him a long-term contract at the end of this year, subject to mutual agreement and availability. This potential arrangement could see Mushtaq becoming a permanent fixture in Bangladesh's coaching setup.

However, Mushtaq's involvement in upcoming series, such as the ODIs against Afghanistan and the tour of West Indies, remains uncertain. His participation will depend on his availability and the BCB's plans.

Meanwhile, BCB has made a change to the squad for the first Test against South Africa. Uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad has been called up as a replacement for the experienced all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan. Murad has impressed in domestic cricket with 136 wickets in 30 first-class matches since his debut in 2021.