📰 Mehidy Hasan Miraz Urges Seniors to Step Up as Bangladesh Begin New ODI Chapter

As Bangladesh kicks off their three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka today at the R. Premadasa Stadium, all eyes are on the team’s new captain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz. With veteran players Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah now retired, Mehidy knows the road ahead is full of challenges — and responsibilities.

🏏 A New Era Begins

The retirement of Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah marks the end of a golden chapter for Bangladesh’s middle order. These two names were not just experienced batsmen but dependable pillars in tight matches. Now, with their absence, Mehidy has openly called upon the remaining senior players to fill that crucial void.

“Those two positions are really valuable,” Mehidy said. “As captain, I am ready to take one of them, and Litton might take the other. We need experienced players in these roles to build the innings properly.”

💬 Leadership & Team Unity

There has been some buzz around leadership dynamics after Nazmul Hossain Shanto stepped down from Test captaincy, but Mehidy assured everyone that team unity is strong.

“We know each other well. Shanto and I are focused on the team. There's no issue between us. What matters most is Bangladesh. That always comes first,” Mehidy clarified.

🚨 Injury Concerns & World Cup Worries

As if the transition wasn’t enough, Bangladesh faces fitness worries too. Rishad Hossain skipped training due to a niggle, while Taskin Ahmed injured his thumb during a catching session. These setbacks only increase the pressure on the playing XI.

Adding to the challenge, Bangladesh has dropped to No. 10 in the ICC ODI rankings. Only the top 8 teams will qualify directly for the next World Cup. Mehidy made it clear: every match now counts.

“Ranking is important, but we won’t take pressure. We need to start strong. This series is a great chance to get back on track,” he said.

🏟 What to Expect from the Pitch

Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka believes today's match will be played on a batting-friendly track, not the usual spin-friendly Premadasa wicket. This might just suit Bangladesh’s batting-heavy lineup, provided they adjust quickly.

Asalanka also warned that Sri Lanka has a plan ready for Bangladesh's key pacer Mustafizur Rahman. “He’s a proven match-winner. But we’re prepared,” he stated.

🔥 Sri Lanka Riding High

Sri Lanka enters this series in red-hot form, having secured back-to-back home wins against Australia and New Zealand. Bangladesh will need to be at their very best to counter that momentum.

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✍ Final Thoughts

The Sri Lanka-Bangladesh ODI series is not just another set of matches — it’s a test of character, leadership, and the depth of Bangladesh’s squad. With Mehidy Hasan Miraz taking charge and calling for senior players to step up, the team is entering a defining phase. Will they rise to the occasion or struggle under the weight of transition?

Only time — and the next three matches — will tell.

Reference from:- https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-news/134850/bangladesh-tour-of-sri-lanka-2025-1st-odi-captains-mehidy-hasan-miraz-charith-asalanka-pre-match-press-conference-cricbuzzcom