Rafique to guide HP spinners

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) called up former Bangladesh spinner Mohammad Rafique to assist the slow bowlers in the ongoing High Performance (HP) programme.

The veteran left-arm spinner was excited as he got the chance to be involved in BCB's activities after a long absence.

“I will try my best to help the young players. Let me start work, then I can understand what I need to do. It's always nice for any retired player to get involved in this kind of activity,” said Rafique, who played 33 Tests and 125 ODIs for Bangladesh.

“We cannot find new talent but only work and ensure improvement of those who are called by the board,” he added.

When asked about Rafique's involvement in HP programme, BCB's national game development manager Nazmul Abedin Fahim said: “He will work as consultant coach during the next two months in HP programme. We have Wahidul Gani who is heading the spin bowling programme and Rafique will assist him. We want to use his experience. It's just a start and if the board decides, he can be involved in a different capacity in the future.”

The BCB yesterday announced the HP specialised (batting, fast bowling, spin bowling and wicket keeping) squads, where a total of 12 spinners have been included.