Mominul's return is a relief: Mushy

There has been a lot of talk since Mominul Haque was left out from the first Test squad to eventually making a comeback in the team.

Four senior members of the Bangladesh team -- Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and Tamim Iqbal -- had a talk with Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hassan about selection of the first Test squad and eventually Mominul was recalled to the side in place of Mosaddek Hossain, who is suffering from an eye problem.

According to Bangladesh Test captain Mushfiqur Rahim, the inclusion of the left-hander is a relief and he is hoping that Mominul will grab the chance with both hands if he gets the opportunity.

"Obviously it's a relief for the team and I think everyone wants to do the best for the team combination and maybe the Almighty also wanted it this way. I hope he [Mominul] will utilise the chance if he gets it," Mushfiqur told reporters after distributing gifts to under-privileged children in Mirpur yesterday.

The 30-year-old said that the Tigers have been playing good cricket, especially at home in the last couple of years, but the upcoming series against Australia will be a competitive one if weather permits as rain has been a regular feature in recent times.

"Finally, after all the tension Australia have arrived and the series is going to take place. Not just the players, I think the whole country is eagerly waiting for the series. Weather permitting, and as the Australian team members have already mentioned, I think it's going to be a very competitive series.

"Obviously we always play to win and we have some very good talent and have been playing really well at home in the last couple of years. We managed to draw our last series at home against a team like England, so obviously we are confident. But we all know that it's not going to be easy against a tough and professional team like Australia. We will try to give our best and if we can do so we have the ability to beat them," he said.

The Bangladesh Test skipper has always come forward during any national crisis and his appeal to help the flood-affected people on his Facebook page was praised by many.

He informed that it is his duty as a national figure to help the people in whatever manner he can.

"Obviously, we have some responsibility to do something for the people who need help. I would like to congratulate the organisers for arranging such activities and I am happy to be a part of this good cause," added Mushfiq.