Saqlain Mushtaq’s tradition of carrying the Pakistani national flag to the ground during practice sessions catapulted into a controversy in the lead-up to the upcoming bilateral series between Pakistan and hosts Bangladesh. In the aftermath of the huge controversy, Ramiz Raja-led Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly sought formal permission from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to hoist the country’s national flag while practicing in Dhaka for the white-ball bilateral series.
After a forgetful ICC World T20 2021, Bangladesh are set to host Pakistan for a three-match T20I series which will be followed by two-Test opera between the Asian teams. Babar Azam-led Pakistan side is gearing up for the series opener for the past four days in Bangladesh’s capital – Dhaka. The tradition of hoisting the country’s flag during training sessions was first introduced by interim head coach Mushtaq.
The visiting team’s decision to hoist the national flag in the Mirpur ground sparked a huge debate among the Bangladeshi fans during Pakistan’s ongoing tour to the nation. The move has been labelled as a political message by the critics prior to the golden jubilee celebrations of Bangladesh’s independence. As per the recent developments, the PCB has opted to seek permission from Bangladesh to hoist the Pakistani flag during practice sessions.
During a media interaction featuring Pakistan captain Azam, the media manager of the Pakistan team has also issued a clarification. “It is nothing new for us. It is part of the coaching philosophy of Saqlain Mushtaq since he joined the team. He feels by putting up the flag it serves as an inspiration and motivation for the players,” the media manager said.
Speaking ahead of the 1st T20I of the bilateral series, Pakistan skipper Azam also lauded the fans of the Green Army in Bangladesh for motivating the visiting side. “They not only support their team but they also cheer us up. Whenever we have gone out for training the people cheer us when they see us in the bus. That is why it’s good that 50 per cent of spectators have been allowed for our T20 series,” Azam added. The first T20I will be played at the Shere Bangla National Stadium of Dhaka on Friday.
