While the Tigers celebrated their victory, Mahidul Islam Ankon is still waiting for his T20I debut, yet to feature in the playing XI. Speaking at a press conference, pace coach Shaun Tait addressed the situation, pointing towards the selection committee.
Tait responds to Ankon’s snub
Following Bangladesh’s whitewash of Ireland in the two-Test series, the team aimed for a strong start in the T20I series. However, Ireland stunned Bangladesh with a 39-run win in the first match. Bangladesh recovered in the second T20I, chasing down 171 with crucial knocks from Parvez Hossain Emon and captain Litton Das, securing a 4-wicket win and leveling the series.
Despite being part of the squad, Ankon remained on the bench and appeared absent from the coaching group’s plans during training. When asked about his omission, Tait kept his stance clear:
“I’m not a selector. You have to ask the selectors that question,” he said.
Tait’s focus ahead of the decider
With the series tied 1-1, the third T20I promises to be the decider. Tait emphasized simplicity and focus, urging the team to concentrate on playing good cricket rather than overthinking.
“We don’t need to complicate our thoughts. We just need to play good cricket and win the game. Every international win boosts confidence, and we want to build on that for tomorrow’s match,” he added.
The third T20I between Bangladesh and Ireland is scheduled for December 2, with both teams aiming to step onto the field with full intensity to claim the series.
