Bangladesh pace bowling coach Shaun Tait has praised Mustafizur Rahman’s exceptional consistency as the benchmark for a fast-bowling unit gaining both depth and confidence ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. While several bowlers are pushing hard for selection, Mustafizur’s performances have firmly cemented his place, leaving no room for doubt.

Mustafizur has been one of Bangladesh’s most dependable T20 bowlers in recent times. His statistics tell the story: in 2024, he claimed 27 wickets in 18 T20 internationals at an average of 19.11, while maintaining a solid economy rate of 7.58. This year alone, he has already taken 23 wickets in 19 matches, with an impressive improved economy rate of just 6.19 runs per over.

“He keeps things very simple and knows his strengths,” Tait explained on Monday. “Having played cricket all over the world, his performance now comes naturally. He holds himself accountable and maintains a high standard.”

Mustafizur’s skillset is deceptively straightforward. His trademark cutters remain some of the hardest variations to read in T20 cricket, and his ability to control tight situations, especially at the death, has made him a coveted player in top leagues globally, including the Indian Premier League.

“He has always been a good performer — that’s what the best players do,” Tait added. “There’s a reason leagues like the IPL want him — he’s a world-class player.”

While Mustafizur provides calm execution, Taskin Ahmed is the vocal leader and emotional heartbeat of the fast-bowling group. Having known Taskin since their shared days in the 2013 Bangladesh Premier League, Tait believes the pacer has reached a pivotal stage in his career.

“Taskin has become a leader within the group,” said Tait. “Not just the fast bowlers, but the entire team looks up to him. He’s a really important player for Bangladesh.”

Together, Mustafizur and Taskin form a balanced partnership: one relies on subtle variations and control, the other on pace and aggression. Their complementary styles are crucial to Bangladesh’s plans.

Adding to this strength is the younger left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam, who has steadily improved.

“His new-ball skills are excellent,” Tait noted. “When he runs in hard, swings the ball, and hits the stumps, his confidence shows. He’s stronger and more mature now, and a pleasure to work with.”

Shoriful also benefits from Mustafizur’s mentorship, especially as a fellow left-armer.

“It’s a good thing Shoriful has Mustafizur in the team to learn from,” Tait said.

Meanwhile, Mohammad Saifuddin remains a valuable all-round option with his variety of skills.

“He’s skillful with lots of variations. I encourage him to focus on his strengths and keep things simple,” added Tait.

Bangladesh’s fast-bowling options have rarely been this competitive. Six or seven quality pacers are vying for four or five spots in the World Cup squad, and Tait welcomes the challenge.

“If you have more players to choose from, it’s a good thing,” he said.

“It might be the first time Bangladesh cricket has had so many high-quality fast bowlers available. That competition should hopefully lift us to another level.”