‘We can’t kidnap Mustafizur but can finish on a high’

India offspinner R Ashwin joined the list of Mustafizur Rahman’s admirers saying that the young fast bowler must be credited for his record-breaking show.

According to a report of IBN Live, while admitting that India “failed as a unit” in the ODI series he said: “We failed as a unit but have learnt our lessons. It’s a challenge for us to win the last ODI.

Ashwin

“Losing the series is not an insult for us. A good side has beaten us. Hopefully, we will try and avoid a Banglawash.”

Before being thrown a question on how the team plans to handle Mustafizur, who has been literally unplayable with spells of 5 for 40 and 6 for 43, Ashwin joked: “We can’t kidnap Mustafizur. He is a really good bowler and we have to give respect to him.”

While talking to reporters ahead of team practice at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on Tuesday, Ashwin said: “Bangladesh know what needs to be done here. They are on the rise and will beat more top teams.

Mustafizur

“We had a quiet couple of days. We would just like to finish it on a high. We would like to win the third ODI.”

“Very important to put the best XI on the park. Every member of the Indian team is fit for tomorrow’s game ” he added.

Brave and bold Bangladesh rode on complete teamwork to outplay India in every department as the home side Sunday secured the three-match one-day international series with a game to spare.

It was another hapless day out for Indian skipper MS Dhoni in Dhaka as no matter whatever trick he pulled out, Bangladesh were equally up to their task and neutralised any incoming threat on their way to a dominating six-wicket victory (Duckworth/Lewis method) in the second ODI at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

“We will try and avoid a Banglawash.”

The series that will end with an inconsequential third game on Wednesday with Bangladesh already having taken a 2-0 winning lead.

It has been a tough week for India, with Dhoni coming under the scanner for his captaincy and some reports of unrest in the Indian dressing room. But Ashwin quashed all that as mere rumours.

“Honestly, the Indian dressing room environment is not down despite the loss. The mood of the team is getting better; losing [this series] is not the end of it.”

Source: Dhaka Tribune