Saif, who scored just 52 runs across three matches in the series, has facedgrowing scrutiny over his place in the national team. "Saif was included in the ODI squad as an opener with a clear plan in mind,"Bashar said here today while announcing the squad for the first two matchesof the New Zealand series. Over the past few years, the team has experimented with several players inthe opening position, but none have managed to secure a long-term spot. Saif has taken the opening position previously held by Soumya Sarkar, who wasnot included in the playing XI for the Pakistan series. Despite this, Basharconfirmed that Sarkar would remain in the squad for the New Zealand series.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha April 11, 2026 14:25 UTC