Bangladesh spin-bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed has expressed strong confidence in his side's ability to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, pointing to their current standing in the points table and a growing belief within the squad that they can challenge any team in the world.

Where Bangladesh Stand in the WTC Race

Bangladesh are currently placed fourth in the WTC points table with a PCT of 55.56%, behind table-toppers Australia (80%), South Africa (75%), and New Zealand (72.22%), but level on PCT with — and marginally ahead of — India. The position reflects a dramatic rise for a side that has historically struggled in the longest format away from home.

The side's confidence received a major boost following their historic Test win over Australia in Darwin — a landmark result for Bangladesh cricket. They did, however, drop the second Test in Mackay against the same 2023 WTC champions, a reminder that the road to the final remains demanding.

What Mushtaq Ahmed Said

'Inshallah, why not? We are in a great position now. If we play good cricket and keep believing, we have the right to go all the way,' Ahmed said. He stressed that a fearless mindset is central to performing at the highest level. 'The only way you can win matches at the international level is when you are not worried about losing. This is the mindset we, as coaches, have to change,' he added.

Ahmed credited the broader support structure for Bangladesh's rise, noting that 'credit goes to all the players, selectors, and stakeholders because they are on the same page and believe we can challenge any team now.'

Spin Camp at Sher-e-Bangla Stadium

Ahmed is currently stationed at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, conducting a four-day spin camp aimed at developing local bowlers. The camp also has a coaching development component, with four or five local coaches learning the art of spin alongside the players.

'Bangladesh cricket structure with the spinners is very good. That is why I think those camps have to be regular — every third month — because I think they will get lots of benefits from it,' he said. Ahmed also emphasised developing indigenous spin-bowling coaches who can work on basics, alignment, and tactical awareness independently.

The Philosophy Behind Spin Development

Ahmed outlined a nuanced approach to spin coaching that goes beyond individual deliveries. 'The spin department is always about when to attack and when not to. Is this a situation to restrict runs or to take wickets? With the pitch spinning, what field positions do you need? What are the strengths of the batsman? You have to teach them all these things and then tell them that good overs will get you wickets, not just good balls,' he explained.

With Bangladesh firmly in WTC contention and a structural spin programme taking shape, the coming months will test whether Ahmed's optimism translates into results on the field.