SL vs BAN 2025: 'If someone better comes, it's good for Bangladesh cricket' - Salahuddin

Bangladesh have faced numerous challenges both on and off the field in 2025. They have endured a string of series defeats against the UAE, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe in addition to the Champions Trophy drubbing. Their struggles continued in Sri Lanka, where they have already lost both the Test and ODI series, with one match remaining on the tour.

Tensions rose when their batting coach Mohammad Salahuddin reacted strongly to suggestions that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is seeking a new replacement in his role. He was appointed in November 2024 primarily to oversee the batting department, and has faced criticism as the unit has yet to find consistent form over the past nine months.

“My role as a coach in the Bangladesh team isn't set in stone. I have never had any ego about it. If someone better comes (in the role of a batting coach), it will be for the team. The Bangladesh team is not the property of my father and grandfather. I will get criticised when I don't do well, I will get praised when I do well. It is the reality. Whether I give 100% for my team, whether I am honest or not, is the main concern,” Salahuddin said in the pre-match press conference as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“Lots of complaints in the team against me”

The main concern for the batting coach of the Bangla Tigers lies with recent media reports suggesting he has had undue influence over team decisions, including selections and player roles. He is known for his stellar record in domestic cricket over the past two decades, and has also built strong, long-standing working relationships with several players.

“After coaching for 27–28 years, I am hearing that there are lots of complaints in the team against me. I really would like to know about those complaints. Best if it was given to me in writing. You have to provide hard evidence. It will help me correct myself,” Salahuddin said.

“If I feel that the team needs a change for the good of the team, I will most likely do that. Our team has been losing regularly, so how will I benefit from favouritism?,” he added.

This is not the first time that internal matters within the Bangladesh camp have surfaced during their tour of Sri Lanka. Last month, Najmul Hossain Shanto stepped down as Test captain, citing confusion, stating that the dressing room had too many captains. Currently, Litton Das leads the T20I side, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz captains the ODI team.