Mashrafe Mortaza "unsurprised" by Bangladesh ODI squad omission

The 37-year old, who is Bangladesh's highest ODI wicket-taker, stepped down from captaincy in March but said he would continue to make himself available for selection

Mashrafe Mortaza has said he was "unsurprised" by the Bangladesh Cricket Board's decision to omit him from the preliminary squad for the upcoming ODI series against West Indies.

The 37-year old, who is Bangladesh’s highest wicket-taker in ODIs, stepped down from captaincy after leading his country to a 3-0 victory over Zimbabwe in March but said he would continue to make himself available for selection.

However, with Bangladesh rebuilding their ODI squad with one eye on the 2023 World Cup, chief selector Minhajul Abedin indicated on Monday that Mortaza was no longer part of their plans going forward.

Commenting on his omission to Kaler Kantho, Mortaza said: "I have taken it professionally. It wasn't a surprising news for myself or my family. Everything has an end. I am sure everything was considered before taking the decision.

Mashrafe Mortaza omitted from Bangladesh preliminary squad for West Indies series

"I have mentioned my retirement thoughts before. I will keep playing as long as my mind and body are going well. I don't know what awaits me. The selectors will decide on my international career.

"I won't play any cricket after I retire. I am 37 years old. Everything comes to an end. I will leave cricket one day."

However, the veteran bowler suggested he won’t be retiring in the immediate future, adding: "I have never failed a fitness test in my 18-year career. I have always believed that hard work pays off.

"I knew my fitness would be a talking point so I always kept my fitness intact; even during the Bangabandhu T20 Cup, I passed the fitness test. I am pleased with the cricket I have played, which is why I want to continue playing."