After a 2–1 ODI series win over New Zealand, the Bangladesh cricket team enjoyed a rest day before turning attention to the upcoming T20 series starting Monday at the Birshreshtha Shaheed Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram. Spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed told reporters that the main goal now is to strengthen the team’s bench.

Selectors have left out experienced pacers Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, and Nahid Rana from the T20 squad, citing workload management and the need to give younger players opportunities. Ripon Mondol and Abdul Gaffar Saqlain have been brought in as replacements, and Mushtaq expressed confidence in their potential. He said the team’s recent ODI success has boosted morale and created a lively dressing room atmosphere.

Mushtaq emphasized that building bench strength is crucial for future tournaments, noting that young players performing well in T20s could also contribute in ODIs. He added that Bangladesh cricket is on the right track, with time to develop before the next major 50-over competition.