Without Mahmudullah Bangladesh would have lost, says Imrul
|| CF DESK ||
Bangladesh batter Imrul Kayes lauded Mahmudullah Riyad for showing his composure and ability in securing a thriller against Sri Lanka.
Bangladesh kicked off their World Cup by clinching a two-wicket win against Sri Lanka after restricting them to 124 runs. While chasing the target, Bangladesh lost a couple of wickets but managed to gain control after Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy formed a crucial partnership of 63 runs, which played a significant role in their victory.
Bangladesh were pushed in the end, largely because of Nuwan Thushara's excellent bowling. But veteran Mahmudullah showed all his experience to see Bangladesh over the line with an unbeaten 16.
Mahmudullah struck a loose full toss from Dasun Shanaka for a six over mid-wicket, which helped calm the team's nerves and secure victory for the Tigers. Imrul mentioned that if it weren't Mahmudullah, Bangladesh would have lost the match.
“Experience is a very big deal. If someone else was in Mahmudullah Bhai's place here, if there was a top-order batsman or a middle-order batsman, then it could have put immense pressure on that batsman, and Bangladesh could have lost the match. But Mahmudullah has again proved that he is still alive... he's not finished yet. I think he is one of the best finishers of the Bangladesh team. We haven't produced a batter like him so far,” said Imrul in a live session with Cricfrenzy.
Imrul praised Mahmudullah's intent and impact, and his transition of batting style, stating that it is a significant development in him.
“Riyad Bhai is more concerned about the team than himself. He is batting aggressively. I have never seen him batting aggressively from the first ball. He has come out of his previous character. He is taking on a new role. This is a huge thing for the team,” he said.
“I think it will be Mahmudullah’s last World Cup. There is nothing to build up his career. That's why he plays fearless cricket. I have seen that he has changed his game from the last BPL. He plays like a T20 specialist batter, and he's hitting from the start. He is playing impactful innings,” he added.
