Since the recent change in government, the ripple effects of transformation are reaching various sectors in the country, including cricket. Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has seen a significant shift with Faruque Ahmed stepping into the role of president, replacing long-time president Nazmul Hassan Papon. Under Faruque’s leadership, major promises are already being fulfilled, including the appointment of prominent local coach Mohammad Salahuddin as the senior assistant coach of the national team.

Nazmul Hassan’s departure came as a relief to many who were eager for change, and Faruque Ahmed’s appointment has ignited fresh hopes for Bangladesh cricket. Faruque had committed to elevating the role of domestic coaching talent, promising that he would back local coaches if given time. Salahuddin, a popular figure among the cricket fraternity, expressed that Faruque Ahmed’s influence and encouragement played a critical role in his decision to take up this important role.

In a video message shared by the BCB, Salahuddin described his motivation for joining the team again: “One of the main reasons I decided to come back is because there has been talk for a long time that the Board will create a platform for local coaches. If I can pave the way for other coaches, it could build trust in local coaching talents, both with the Board and with the public. It’s an important step for Bangladeshi coaches, and I take on this challenge wholeheartedly.”

Salahuddin emphasized that the development of local coaches requires clear pathways and visibility, and he aims to inspire confidence in their abilities on an international level. He continued, "I feel a responsibility to set an example so that future coaches can confidently step into roles at the top level. If I can make a difference now, it will open doors for the next generation of coaches.”

Salahuddin himself acknowledged that the biggest push came from Faruque Ahmed, who had consistently shown faith in him and other local coaches. “I’ve had several discussions with Faruque Bhai, and he’s been encouraging me for some time. He believes it’s essential to have local coaches in the team. His encouragement was instrumental in my decision to accept this role and contribute my years of coaching experience to Bangladesh.”

Salahuddin has previously served as an assistant and fielding coach for the national team. In those early years, he worked with young stars like Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, and Mushfiqur Rahim, who have now matured into key figures. Salahuddin sees his role now as a guide for the new generation, aiming to use his expertise to support them tactically, mentally, and technically.

“My previous stint allowed me to work with a generation of players who have taken the team to a certain level. Now, I want to pass on my experience to the next group, helping them grow mentally, technically, and strategically. If I can contribute positively to any player’s growth, it will be rewarding both for them and for the country,” he added.

Already, Salahuddin has taken charge, focusing on training players in Mirpur who didn’t make it to the current Afghanistan series. His role will expand fully with the upcoming West Indies tour, marking the start of his journey as the senior assistant coach under the new BCB leadership.