'PCB should be given credit' - Mushtaq Ahmed elated with Bangladesh's early arrival in Pakistan

Bangladesh have landed in Pakistan for the two-match Test series with the first Test scheduled to commence on August 21 in Rawalpindi. They will be hosting England and West Indies subsequently and the fixtures will prove as a litmus test for security issues which Pakistan has grappled with over the years, keeping in mind the Champions Trophy 2025 hosting.  

As the Bangla Tigers arrived in Pakistan amidst political turmoil back home, Bangladesh spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the smooth handling of the team's arrival. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had to prepone their arrival since the turmoil back home meant they could not have practiced for the crucial Pakistan assignment. There early arrival not only takes care of that aspect but also gives the visitors a chance to acclimatise with the conditions even better.

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"Because of the situation (political) it was not possible to do practice there (in Bangladesh). They (PCB) were the first people who called and said 'thank you very much, bring your team here earlier, we can manage them'. You know there were security issues, and issues with the pitches but PCB should be given this credit,” said Mushtaq as quoted by Cricbuzz.

This is a great relationship between Bangladesh and PCB: Mushtaq

Bangladesh touched down in Lahore and went into practice before moving to Islamabad. Shakib Al Hasan’s inclusion was highly doubted but the veteran made it to the roster in the last moment. Mushtaq highlighting PCB’s efforts foresaw the cricketing relations between both countries to improve and also added that the Bangla players are focusing on cricket keeping the development at home aside.

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"And I think this a great relationship between Bangladesh and PCB and if they can keep looking after each other like that, then I think cricket will grow stronger. I think all the boys are happy and very excited to play the first Test at Rawalpindi. The effect of the situation has been removed quite a bit. I credit the management who have been very good with the players,” he continued.

"Players such as Shakib are playing a good positive role with advice. Senior players such as Mushy [Mushfiqur Rahim], Taskin [Ahmed], and these guys are playing a good positive role. When you come to play a series, focus is on cricket and I think they are focusing on cricket now," Mushtaq concluded.