Mohammad Ashraful Begins Coaching with Rangpur Riders

Former Bangladesh captain Mohammad Ashraful is taking his first significant steps toward a coaching career. On Thursday, he was actively engaged at the BCB Academy at Sher-E-Bangla Stadium, signalling his ambitions to return to cricket in a new role. Although Ashraful’s national playing career did not resume after his ban, his new position as an assistant coach for the Rangpur Riders in the upcoming Global Super League T20 (GSLT20) and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) marks a fresh chapter.

Stepping into Coaching

Renowned coach Mickey Arthur is set to join the Riders when they travel to the West Indies for the GSLT20. Until then, Ashraful, the youngest Test centurion in history, has been enjoying his role leading the team in Arthur’s absence. Speaking to reporters, Ashraful expressed gratitude for the opportunity. He revealed that his plan to join the Rangpur Riders in the previous BPL season didn’t materialise but shared his excitement about starting with both the GSLT20 and the upcoming BPL. 

Ashraful highlighted his extensive playing experience—12 years of international cricket and nearly 24 years of First-Class cricket—as a foundation for his coaching journey. He has spent over a month at the BCB Academy, honing his skills and preparing for his role. He also expressed eagerness to learn from Mickey Arthur, hoping to combine his experience with new coaching knowledge to help players improve.

Coaching Aspirations

Acknowledging that his coaching career is just beginning, Ashraful emphasised the need to continue learning despite holding a Level 3 coaching certification. He shared his vision of working at various levels before eventually aiming for a coaching position with the national team. Success with the Riders, he believes, could open doors for further opportunities in his coaching journey.

Support for Local Coaches

Ashraful praised the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) decision to appoint Mohammad Salahuddin as the senior assistant coach for the national team, describing it as a morale booster for aspiring local coaches. He noted that such appointments could foster better relationships between players and coaches, and expressed hope that more local coaches would be given opportunities in key roles.

“It’s a great move, though it could have happened earlier,” Ashraful remarked. He pointed out that Salahuddin’s return after more than a decade is a positive step that could inspire other local coaches to aim for the national team.

A Promising Start

Ashraful’s transition to coaching represents a new beginning for one of Bangladesh’s most iconic cricketers. With determination to learn and share his experience, he is poised to make a meaningful impact on the game from the sidelines.