Mehidy Hasan Miraz: The Pressure of Leadership and the Quest for Stability in Bangladesh's Cricket Setup

Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh's key all-rounder, has opened up about the challenges and pressures he faces as the team prepares for the Champions Trophy. With the absence of legendary all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy is under increased scrutiny to step into the void and deliver for his country.

On the Pressure of the Champions Trophy

Mehidy acknowledges the immense responsibility of leading Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy after an eight-year gap. Reflecting on his early international career, he admits that while the pressure is real, he is determined to rise to the occasion. Mehidy emphasizes the importance of focusing on the task at hand, despite the limited preparation time following the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

On Replacing Shakib Al Hasan

The burden of replacing Shakib Al Hasan is a significant one, but Mehidy remains optimistic. He believes that his ability to contribute both with the bat and ball is crucial for the team's success. While he acknowledges that expectations are high, he is committed to giving his best for the country.

On Batting Position and Stability

Mehidy has been shuffled between various batting positions over the years, a situation he believes has hindered his consistency. He expresses a desire for a permanent position, ideally at number four, where he believes he can perform effectively. Mehidy has already shown promise in this role, with three scores of 70+ in four innings. He credits Mushfiqur Rahim, a seasoned number four batter, for his guidance and support.

On Leadership and Captaincy

Mehidy also touches on the topic of leadership, addressing rumors of competition with Najmul Hossain for the captaincy. He dismisses these claims, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and mutual respect. Mehidy highlights the advice of Tamim Iqbal, stressing that while captaincy is an honor, it is ultimately about serving the team and the country.

On Bowling in the Champions Trophy

Mehidy is well-aware of the challenges spinners face in the Champions Trophy, particularly against strong opponents like Pakistan. Drawing on his experience of playing in challenging conditions in Rawalpindi and Dubai, he is confident that his mental preparation will be key to his success.

On the Mindset of an ODI Bowler

Mehidy reflects on the mental game of bowling in ODIs, emphasizing the need for adaptability. He believes that understanding the batter's mindset and making the right decisions at the right time is crucial for success.

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