Mushfiqur welcomes 'Share and Care' move, stresses on implementation

Former Bangladesh skipper Mushfiqur Rahim said on Wednesday (August 20) that the Bangladesh Cricket Board's new 'Share and Care' initiative is a positive step, but it will only matter if it is eventually put into practice.

BCB president Aminul Islam recently launched the initiative to strengthen internal bonds, encourage direct communication, foster open and honest dialogue, and collectively reflect on the values that guide both the team and the board.

"It's a good initiative," Mushfiqur told reporters when asked about the board's move. "Until these are implemented, such meetings won't be fruitful."

Mushfiqur was speaking at the "Celebrating Youth Festival: Physically Challenged Cricket Trial and Selection Camp 2025", organised by the National Paralympics Committee of Bangladesh at the Bashundhara Sports City indoor facility. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter stressed the importance of creating better opportunities for the next generation of cricketers.

"We are nearing the end of our careers, so we hope to create an environment for the next generation where they can play regularly everywhere. We want to provide the facilities and opportunities for proper practice," he said. "Compared to how world cricket has advanced, Bangladesh is far behind. If we can provide that support, Bangladesh cricket can move forward much more."

Mushfiqur also confirmed his interest in playing the upcoming National Cricket League (NCL). "If any team picks me I will play in the NCL. I am ready both mentally and physically. Now let's see what happens," he said.

The former captain praised the world-class facilities at Bashundhara Sports City, noting that hosting international cricket there would benefit local players. The Bashundhara Cricket Network currently houses five centre wickets, 12 turf pitches, seven-lane indoor astro-turfs with advanced bowling machines, video analysis systems, and modern fitness amenities including a gym, swimming pool and ice bath facilities.

"If it becomes an international venue, our cricketers will be able to come here and practice with top-level facilities," said Mushfiqur, adding that the infrastructure at Bashundhara should serve as a wake-up call for cricket administrators.

"Seeing this, all of us should feel ashamed. Because a group like this in Bangladesh... forget cricket, no other national team in Bangladesh gets this kind of facility. And this should actually be considered very basic. Because if you can't ensure opportunities and proper facilities, it becomes difficult to produce players," he said.

He urged the cricket board and policymakers to take inspiration from the initiative. "If our policymakers are not encouraged by seeing these facilities, then there is nothing left to say except regret. However, this is definitely something inspiring. Even if it's a bit late, such a big group like them (Bashundhara) has taken this initiative. I hope a lot of cricketers will benefit from this, many people will benefit, and many will be inspired watching this," Mushfiqur said.