Mohammad Ashraful has been named Bangladesh's batting coach for the upcoming home series against Ireland, marking his first official return to the national team setup since his match-fixing ban. He takes over from Mohammad Salahuddin, who had been managing the batting unit following David Hemp's departure. The Bangladesh Cricket Board also appointed former spinner and current director Abdur Razzak as team director for the series. Ireland will tour Bangladesh for a two-match Test series and three T20Is starting in November. Ashraful, once the youngest Test centurion at 17, faced an eight-year ban reduced to five years for his role in fixing during the Bangladesh Premier League. Since completing his suspension, he has worked in domestic coaching roles, including stints with Rangpur Riders in the Global Super League, while earning his coaching qualifications.
Ashraful's Journey From Ban to National Coaching Role
Born on July 7, 1984, in Dhaka, Ashraful made history in 2001 by becoming the youngest player to score a Test century against Sri Lanka. He captained Bangladesh from 2007 to 2009, overseeing notable victories including the team's first World Cup win over South Africa. However, his career took a downturn when the BCB banned him for eight years for match-fixing in the Bangladesh Premier League, later reduced to five years due to cooperation. During his suspension, Ashraful completed formal coaching courses, mentored young players, and stayed connected to cricket through private training programs. He has since worked as batting coach for Rangpur Riders in the Global Super League on multiple occasions before this national appointment.
Source: Link