Shoriful impresses in series opener, still uncertain for second ODI

Bangladesh pacer Shoriful Islam made the most of an unexpected opportunity, producing a disciplined bowling performance after being drafted into the playing XI at the very last moment in Bangladesh’s first ODI against New Zealand on Friday, a match they ultimately lost by 26 runs.

Shoriful picked up two wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of just 2.70, offering control and composure in a match where Bangladesh fell short despite moments of resistance. However, his inclusion was never part of the original plan.

The left-arm pacer revealed that he only learned he would be playing seconds before the toss, after Mustafizur Rahman was ruled out due to a knee discomfort during warm-ups. The sudden change forced Shoriful to switch mentally within minutes.

“A second or two before the toss, I was told that I will be playing. I was talking to Rishad [Hossain] in the dressing room and he said that maybe it was in my fate. So [ahead of the game] I just did a little warm-up routine and measured my run-up and bowled a few deliveries,” Shoriful said during the press conference on Sunday, reflecting on his rapid adjustment.

Despite his strong performance, team management sources indicated that Mustafizur is recovering well and has no ongoing concerns, raising the possibility that Shoriful may again find himself on the bench once the senior pacer returns.

Still, the 23-year-old remains grounded about his role in the squad and the uncertainty of selection.

“He [Mustafizur] is doing pretty well. As professionals, the 15 members in the squad keep themselves ready to play. Now the coach will decide and we will be ready. It’s not in my hands [who plays or not] and we will take the field with the team we get,” he added.

The second match will be held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Monday.