Veteran all-rounder Mashrafe Mortaza has decided to step down as Bangladesh's ODI skipper after the conclusion of the ongoing series against Zimbabwe. Mortaza, who faced the media ahead of the third ODI against Zimbabwe confirmed the decision. Meanwhile, it comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief Nazmul Hasan said that they are looking for a long-standing skipper with an eye on the ICC World Cup 2023.
Mortaza, who made his senior team debut in 2001, was first picked as the ODI captain in 2010. After a few short stints, he reclaimed the leadership role in November 2014, leading the side to their first-ever knockouts appearance at World Cup, 2015. His stature as Bangladesh captain grew consistently making it to the semifinals of the 2017 Champions Trophy.
In all Mashrafe Mortaza has led the Tigers in 87 games, winning 49 and losing 36 – a record unparalleled in Bangladesh cricket. The third and final ODI in Sylhet on March 6 (Friday) will be the last game as Bangladesh's captain for the 36-year-old.
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Mortaza has been struggling with a lot of injuries in recent times as he knocks the twilight of his career. He has been in and out of the squad and the governing body is looking for someone who can rebuild the side with next 50-overs World Cup in sight. Meanwhile, as per Nazmul Hasan, Mortaza's selection as a player for future tournaments will be subject to his beep test results.
Speaking about the series, Bangladesh have already pocketed the series winning the first two games beating Zimbabwe convincingly. They will hope to continue their winning run and register a clean sweep against the visitors before shifting focus on the shorter formats.
