Mashrafe Mortaza to Contest in Upcoming Bangladesh National Election for Ruling Party Awami League

Bangladesh’s One-Day International (ODI) captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza will contest the upcoming general election in the country. The fast-bowler will contest from Narail 2 constituency on the ruling party’s (Bangladesh Awami League) ticket. The general elections are scheduled to take place on December 30. As per the report in Dhaka Tribune, Mortaza met Prime Minister and Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina at her official residence.

Mashrafe has been involved in social activities after he chose to represent Bangladesh in only ODI format. The right-arm fast-bowler is among Bangladesh’s successful captains and is also the country’s highest ODI wicket-taker. Recently under his captaincy, Bangladesh made it to the final of Asia Cup. Though they lost to India. General Elections: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Holds Dialogue with Major Opposition Alliance

Mashrafe, who hails from Narail district, is fondly known as the “Narail Express” among fans. Last year, the Bangladesh ODI captain founded an organisation called the “Narail Express Foundation” which focuses on the development work in the area.

Bangladesh cricket team is currently locked in Tests series with Zimbabwe. Next month, the Tigers will host West Indies for three ODIs and three T20Is. The ODI series will begin on December 09 and ends on December 14. So, Mashrafe will be available for campaigning as he no longer plays T20I format which follows the ODI series.

There are reports that country’s top all-rounder Shakib al Hasan has also expressed his interest in contesting the polls for Awami League from Magura. However, it is learnt that Hasina has advised Shakib to focus on cricket as of now.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 12, 2018 10:53 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).