Bangladesh pacer denies claims of late arrival causing omission from crucial India clash
Leading Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed has rubbished suggestions that he missed out on the team's must-win T20 World Cup match against India due to turning up late. While the vice-captain admits to having faced some delay in reaching the ground, he maintains it had no bearing on the team's decision to axe him from the playing XI.
In a close contest where both sides were aiming for a semifinal berth, Bangladesh opted for an additional batting option instead of including their frontline speedster. This move was questioned in some quarters given Taskin's experience and ability to provide breakthroughs. However, the player himself insists the small delay in joining his teammates had no role to play.
According to Taskin, he reached the venue well before the toss could happen. While accepting responsibility for missing the team bus, the pacer stated he was present nearly 30 minutes in advance of the all-important toss. Former captain Shakib Al Hassan though took a diverging stand, suggesting the late arrival did create some complications regarding team selection for the crucial match.
Board president Nazmul Hassan has affirmed that the matter will be examined thoroughly based on official reports. With contrasting versions emerging, it will be interesting to see if more light gets shed on the decision making process as Bangladesh aim to bounce back from the early exit. The controversy hasn't become a distraction for Taskin, who remains focussed on serving the team in future assignments.
