Rangpur Riders Aiming for Global T20 Final: Coach Mohammad Ashraful

Rangpur Riders assistant coach Mohammad Ashraful expressed confidence in his team’s potential to reach the final of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) T20.

Speaking on Thursday, November 14, Ashraful outlined the team’s ambition to make it to the championship game at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence, West Indies.

“Our primary target is to secure a spot in the final,” said Ashraful, the former Bangladesh captain. “If we achieve that, we’ll give our best effort to claim the title. We’re aware of the challenges, but I believe that by playing as a cohesive unit, reaching the final is within our grasp.”

The inaugural edition of the GSL T20 tournament is set to take place from November 27 to December 6. The Rangpur Riders will depart for the Caribbean on November 22 to prepare for this high-profile competition. This tournament also marks a significant milestone for Ashraful as he embarks on his professional coaching career.

Ashraful emphasized the broader impact of this tournament for Bangladeshi cricket, as their players rarely get the opportunity to showcase their talent in international franchise leagues. “This is an invaluable platform for our local players to gain exposure and prove themselves on a global stage. They don’t often get such chances, so this is a significant opportunity for them,” he noted.

The Rangpur Riders’ roster boasts a mix of seasoned Bangladeshi internationals, including Nurul Hasan Sohan, Soumya Sarkar, Afif Hossain, and Mahedi Hasan. The squad is further bolstered by international stars such as Matthew Forde from the West Indies, Wayne Madsen and Zak Chappell from England, and Harmeet Singh from the USA.

Five teams will compete for a $1 million prize pool over 11 matches. The teams participating in the 2024 edition include the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Hampshire Hawks, Lahore Qalandars, Rangpur Riders, and Victoria.

Ashraful highlighted the Riders’ balanced lineup and readiness for the tournament’s demands, especially on Caribbean pitches.

“Our team is balanced, experienced, and well-prepared to handle the playing conditions in the Caribbean. Rangpur Riders are a well-organized team in the BPL, and this environment is perfect for getting the team into peak form. We’ll have three more practice days, followed by a warm-up match and additional training sessions in the West Indies. It’s exciting to work with such a committed and focused team,” he added.

With the tournament just days away, the Riders’ preparation and team synergy will be put to the test as they aim to bring home the championship.