Cricket World Cup 2019: Mortaza defends Mushfiqur's costly error in Bangladesh's loss to New Zealand

Waseem Ahmed 17:13 06/06/2019
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  • Mushfiqur gave Williamson a huge let-off in Bangladesh's loss.

    Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza has come to the defence of Mushfiqur Rahim after the wicketkeeper’s error gave Kane Williamson a massive reprieve in New Zealand’s two-wicket victory in the 2019 ICC World Cup clash.

    With New Zealand chasing 245 for victory at the Oval on Wednesday, Mushfiqur gave Williamson a big let-off in the 12th over when he accidentally broke the stumps with his arms while attempting to run out the Kiwi skipper.

    Williamson was well short of his crease as Mushfiqur collected Tamim Iqbal’s throw from mid-on but the wicketkeeper accidentally dislodged the bails before he could effect the run-out. Williamson was still early to the crease when the incident occurred and went on to forge a crucial 105-run stand for the third wicket alongside Ross Taylor.

    “I don’t think we need to go after Mushfiqur,” Mortaza said after the team’s loss.

    “He was also trying hard to get him out. That throw was straight, but as a keeper it was hard to know if it was straight or not. Suddenly the stumps hit his elbow, but it happens.

    “Mushfiqur is a professional player. He knows how to handle all of this. It is not as if this was the first mistake in Mushfiqur’s life. Every player makes mistakes.”

    “I don’t think there is a need to create pressure for anyone and neither do I think that he needs to think about this,” the Bangladesh skipper continued.

    “If everything goes well in the next match, you will see that everything is fine again.”

    The loss was Bangladesh’s first in the tournament after they had earlier stunned South Africa in their campaign opener. The Tigers will next face hosts and favourites England at Taunton on Saturday.

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