Mashud mystery
What's actually eating Bangladesh skipper Khaled Mashud?
With the World Cup only a month away, the tough man of Bangladesh cricket was down in dumps for some mysterious reasons. Mashud, who led the weakest side of international cricket by example, caught everyone off guard on Wednesday by saying that he would step down as Bangladesh captain after the World Cup.
He reaffirmed his decision after being faced with a volley of questions from reporters at a press briefing organised in connection with the new sponsor of the national team for the World Cup.
"Yes, I have decided to step down as captain after the World Cup. Because, I want to give more time to my family and stay beside my ailing mother," said the grim-faced 26-year-old wicketkeeper.
Mashud, who is handling the hot seat quite commendably and also performing at the same time since he took over from Naimur Rahman in November 2000, refused to comment when reporters pressed him to know whether there were other reasons.
Struggling hard to control his emotions, Mashud however down played the fear that his unexpected decision ahead of the World Cup might affect the morale of the team.
"It has nothing to do with my total commitment to the World Cup. And, I believe all the players will rally behind me for a better performance," said Mashud.
But the always optimistic and jovial man from Rajshahi certainly left behind hundred of questions to be answered when he hurried off the lavish 'Dilkusha' ball room with tears trickling down his cheeks.
It is indeed a puzzling situation for someone who knows Mashud as a 150% fighter.
Many felt that miscommunication on part of the Board might have led Mashud to take such a surprising decision.
A thinking cricketer, Mashud has long been pressing the Board for improved practice facilities and a concerted planning so that the players can avail adequate training before facing the top class opponents.
But the Board has remained as indifferent as ever. The Board bigwigs are yet to address those in its different standing committees even.
Riazuddin Al Mamun, the chairman of the media committee, rightly said Mashud, who is nicknamed as Pilot, will be our hope-bearer in the World Cup.
"Pilot will pilot our team to a respectable show in the World Cup," said Riazuddin in his brief speech. But little did he notice that the Bangladesh captain, sitting next to him, was trying hard to hold back his tears.
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