DHAKA, April 11, 2026 (BSS) - Bangladesh Chief Selector Habibul Bashar Sumon 
has reiterated his support for opener Saif Hassan, despite the latter's 
recent struggles during the series against Pakistan.

Saif, who scored just 52 runs across three matches in the series, has faced 
growing scrutiny over his place in the national team. 

However, Bashar stated that the selectors were committed to giving him a fair 
chance to find his rhythm, particularly with the upcoming three-match ODI 
series against New Zealand.

"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 matches 
of the New Zealand series.
 
"We want him to get back to form, and we are giving him the opportunity to do 
so. Our priority is to settle the top-order combination, and for that, 
consistency is key."

The opening slot has been a point of concern for Bangladesh since the 
retirement of former captain Tamim Iqbal, who is now the president of the 
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). 

Over the past few years, the team has experimented with several players in 
the opening position, but none have managed to secure a long-term spot.

Bashar, however, believes that three matches are insufficient to judge a 
player's potential, particularly when it comes to opening the batting in 
international cricket.
 
"When someone is given an opportunity, we believe that three matches are not 
enough to make a decision. Saif has already played for us, and we want to 
stick with him for a longer period," he explained.

Saif has taken the opening position previously held by Soumya Sarkar, who was 
not included in the playing XI for the Pakistan series. Despite this, Bashar 
confirmed that Sarkar would remain in the squad for the New Zealand series.

"Soumya is still an asset to the team," Bashar said. "I have been watching 
him in practice, and what impressed me was the way he handled off-spin. He is 
still a vital cog of our setup."

The Bangladesh selectors have been keeping a close eye on all players as the 
team gears up for a packed schedule in the coming months. 
Bashar expressed confidence that everyone in the squad would eventually get 
their chance to prove their worth.

"We have a lot of matches ahead of us, and no doubt, everyone will get 
opportunities. Having a player like Soumya on the bench means our team is in 
a strong position," he added.