With Shakib Al Hasan already stepping aside from T20Is, Bangladesh is preparing for the future, but veteran Mahmudullah, nearing his 39th birthday, isn't ready to hang up his boots yet.
While it seemed a year ago that Mahmudullah had played his last match in the format, his persistence paid off, allowing him to return and become Bangladesh's top run-scorer at T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.
Ahead of the opening game in Gwalior, the experienced campaigner—who has featured in 138 T20I matches—was seen actively participating in batting and bowling drills. Meanwhile, his captain addressed questions regarding Mahmudullah's future as the team sets its sights on the 2026 T20 World Cup.
"Regarding Riyad bhai [Mahmudullah], this series is crucial for him. He may have ongoing discussions with the selectors, although I'm not entirely sure," said Shanto. "I think there will definitely be conversations with the selectors and the board about his future."
"So far, we haven't discussed whether this will be his last series or not. Those discussions might happen later, but right now, my focus is solely on the upcoming series," Shanto added.
When asked about potential comparisons between Mahmudullah and Shamim Hossain Patwari, Shanto remained firm in his support for both players. While Shamim is seen as Mahmudullah's long-term replacement in the middle-order, Shanto was unwilling to draw parallels between them.
"Comparisons are not fair at this point. Riyad bhai has served Bangladesh cricket for many years, contributing significantly to numerous victories. Shamim is still young and has been batting well, but I don't want to compare the two just yet," Shanto said. "Shamim is performing brilliantly, and I'm confident he'll serve the team well when given the chance. As for Riyad bhai, his performance in the practice match doesn't change anything for me."
Shanto also emphasized that the upcoming T20I series would be approached with an eye toward the 2026 World Cup, just two years away. "We have a new team, and starting from this series, you’ll see a different approach from our players. Everyone is playing to win, and I believe that along with the current squad, four or five more players will join, forming the core of our 2026 World Cup squad. Our preparation begins now," he said.
"As we start this series, our focus is clearly on the 2026 World Cup. We have around 20-22 players, including those in the current squad and others who could come in, and they will play a vital role in our future. So, this is where our preparations officially start."
Regarding Shakib Al Hasan's absence, Shanto acknowledged that adjustments would be needed. "Shakib bhai has been with us for so long, and his absence will require some adjustments. It’s not a major issue, but there will be challenges in balancing the XI without him, given his all-round contributions. We've brought in Miraz to help fill that role, and we hope he can adapt quickly," Shanto concluded.
