Allrounder Mosaddek Hossain Saikat. Photo: Collected

DHAKA, June 9, 2026 (BSS) - Allrounder Mosaddek Hossain Saikat termed his match-winning performance against Australia as one of the best outings of his 
career under pressure, saying patience and perseverance during four difficult years away from the national side helped him seize the opportunity upon his  return.

Mosaddek starred with an unbeaten 86 off 70 balls and then claimed two wickets for 37 runs in 10 overs as Bangladesh secured a historic 86-run 
victory over Australia on DLS method in the first ODI at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium today. Mosaddek admitted the four-year wait was frustrating but said he never lost faith in his ability.

"Of course there was frustration. It wasn't an easy time for me," he said. "But I always tried to be patient and do my job. I believed that if I 
continued performing, the opportunity would come sooner or later."

The allrounder said his strong performances in domestic cricket gave him the confidence to believe a national team recall was possible.

"I never thought the opportunity would not come again. The way I was playing in domestic cricket over the last few years, I had the belief that if I 
continued like this, my chance would come."

Mosaddek credited the team management for backing him and allowing him to play with freedom.
 
"The management supported me and told me to enjoy my game. I didn't think about the fact that I was returning after a long time. I just tried to do 
what the situation demanded."

He revealed that discussions with batting coach Mohammad Salahuddin and former captain Mohammad Ashraful before the match encouraged him to adopt a positive approach regardless of the situation.

"The message from the dressing room was clear - we needed to maximize our runs. If we wanted to compete against a team like Australia, we had to aim 
for 300-plus whenever conditions allowed."

Mosaddek believed Bangladesh fell around 20 runs short of their target despite posting a competitive total, adding that the batting surface was good 
enough for a score between 300 and 320.

The allrounder also dismissed suggestions that he felt unfairly treated during his years outside the national team.

"I never thought about whether I was treated unfairly. I focused on staying ready so that when the opportunity came, I could take it."

Mosaddek stressed the importance of quality domestic cricket and better batting surfaces in developing Bangladesh's cricketers.

"If batters consistently play on good wickets, they gain confidence in their shots. That helps expand their range and ultimately benefits the national 
team."

Despite his successful return, Mosaddek said he still carries regrets about not fulfilling his potential earlier in his international career.

"I believe I could have contributed more according to my potential. I always look at my shortcomings and try to improve."

Mosaddek also believes that Bangladesh can clinch the series against Australia.

"We have a very good chance to win this series. If we stay committed to our process, it is definitely possible. We all have to believe in that."