Mohammad Salahuddin. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, Aug 31, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh's senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin praised Saif Hasan's strong mindset, saying that the batter showed grit and determination to make a good comeback.

Saif who returned to the national team after four years took two wickets and followed it up with 19 ball-36 not out in Bangladesh's comprehensive eight-wicket victory over Netherlands in the first match.

Although the performance came against a weaker opponents, his approach and body language had already earned much plaudits.

"Not everyone can make a comeback such strongly when he received setback early in his career and moreover Saif has the tag of Test cricketer," Salahuddin told the reporters in Sylhet during Bangladesh optional practice for the second T20. 

"It's not everyone's cup of tea, specially the determination he showed after making comeback. He has to keep improving. He tried and he did it by himself. He wanted to see himself in certain height."

Saif's return to national team is a bit surprise. At the beginning of his career, he was considered suitable for Tests. He stepped into international cricket with the longer version format but his six-match Test career came to a halt without a half-century.

He could not make much of an impact in T20Is either. He was out for duck three times in five matches before yesterday's match against the Dutch. But then Saif changed his role and started batting in middle order position in domestic cricket. He also improved his bowling while honing his batting skill.

In an interview given to broadcasters after the first match, Saif credited Salahuddin for his revival. He said he worked Salahuddin extensively to make him ready for national team again.

Saif Hasan was not as much of a part of the discussion for Asia Cup as Nurul Hasan Sohan was. Therefore his inclusion came as a bit surprise. 

The selectors had asked Saif to trust in his ability to play a role in multiple places in taking him to the continental tournament.
That trust was repaid to some extent yesterday against the Netherlands. 

After being dropped from the national team in 2021, Saif has only played in the Asian Games. 

Salahuddin believes that Saif has the knack to do well consistently. "Many people try, but many people may have a month, two months, or a year of patience. But I saw his patience for four years. It's a big...I think he will get the result for his stubbornness and determination."

Salahuddin at the same time urged everyone not to highlight him so highly now.

"I have requested you before, don't lift anyone up too quickly. Don't bring anyone down too quickly. He needs to do it consistently."

The second T20 is tomorrow (Monday) at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. A victory would give Bangladesh the series with a match to go.