Mustafizur has been facing challenges in the ODI format. ©AFP
The Return of Fizz
“Fizz is back” is a popular expression among Bangladeshi cricket fans, and it echoed when he dismissed Janith Liyanage during the second ODI against Sri Lanka. Liyanage was on his way to a quick fifty when Mustafizur struck.
Impact on the Game
By allowing just one run in the 46th over and taking Liyanage’s wicket in the following over, Mustafizur significantly altered the match’s dynamics. However, does this performance indicate that he has regained his ODI prowess? His later performance was underwhelming, raising questions about his position in the squad.
Statistical Decline
Since the 2023 World Cup, Mustafizur’s form has dipped compared to his fellow fast bowlers. Across 19 ODIs, he secured only 19 wickets with an economy rate of 5.69, while Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam recorded 27 and 23 wickets, respectively, despite playing fewer matches.
Performance Analysis
Mustafizur has bowled a total of 29 overs with the new ball, taking four wickets at an economy of 5.45. He has also claimed 11 wickets in middle overs, with an economy of 5.39, but went wicketless in ten of the 19 matches. His performance during death overs sees him taking just four wickets from 27.4 overs.
Coaching Insights
Mahbub Ali Zaki, a game development coach for the BCB, believes Mustafizur lacks the pace and swing needed for effective new ball bowling, relying heavily on cutters. His performance suggests he is more suited for T20 cricket, leading to calls for introducing younger bowlers into the ODI setup.
Future Outlook
As the Bangladesh team evaluates Mustafizur’s potential, his lack of consistent ODI performance raises concerns. Unless he develops his skill set further, his position in the ODI squad may remain in jeopardy.
© Cricbuzz
