Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad Eye Coaching Careers After Retirement, Reveals BCB President

Two of Bangladesh's most experienced cricketers, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad, may soon bid farewell to international cricket. While Mahmudullah has already stepped away from all three formats, Mushfiqur is currently only active in Tests, where his recent form has been underwhelming.

However, retirement from playing does not mean the end of their cricketing journey. According to Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam Bulbul, both players have expressed a keen interest in pursuing coaching roles at the international level.

Speaking at an informal event organized by the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association (BSJA) on Sunday, Bulbul revealed,

“I don’t know if I should say this, but even before I joined the BCB, Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah had contacted me. They want to become international coaches. That’s why we will initiate a coaching development program through the board.”

Bulbul emphasized the importance of utilizing the expertise of former cricketers to build the future of Bangladesh cricket.

“Nannu bhai (Minhajul Abedin) is one of our best batters, Akram (Khan) one of the finest captains. Lipu bhai (Gazi Ashraf Hossain), Habibul Bashar—each one is a legend. Their character, understanding of wickets and dressing room culture—these are assets for us.”

However, Bulbul was quick to note that being a former player doesn’t automatically guarantee success as a coach or administrator.

“We must ensure that we benefit from such subject matter experts effectively. But it’s also true that just because someone played cricket doesn’t mean they will be a good coach or administrator. That’s why I’m taking initiatives for proper preparation and planning.”

Bulbul’s comments clearly indicate that the BCB is planning to involve former cricketers in coaching and mentoring roles. For Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah, that second innings may soon begin—not with the bat, but from the dugout.