Former Bangladesh cricket captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza's participation in the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is uncertain due to fitness issues, according to Sylhet Strikers coach Mahmud Emon.
"The team has already begun preparations but Mashrafe's readiness remains unclear," he said.
Mashrafe, a member of the dethroned Sheikh Hasina government, has been out of the public eye following the political upheaval that removed Awami League from power earlier this year. His absence from cricket and public life has raised questions about his future in competitive sports.
Sylhet Strikers coach Mahmud Emon stated that Mashrafe is still part of the squad and remains a valued team member. However, his participation will depend on his fitness and the overall circumstances.
"Mashrafe is an integral part of the team, but his readiness will depend on his physical condition and how he feels. If he's fit and the environment permits, we would love to have him play," Mahmud said.
Mashrafe last appeared in a competitive cricket match in April, months before the political landscape shifted dramatically. Despite his inactivity, the Sylhet Strikers retained him for a third consecutive season in October.
Mashrafe's political ties to AL have also cast a shadow over his BPL participation. After the team drafted him, protests erupted in Sylhet, reflecting lingering tensions from the political unrest earlier this year.
In the wake of the regime change, Mashrafe publicly acknowledged his shortcomings as a representative of the people, stating, "I completely failed to meet the expectations of the masses."
