Sports Desk:

Mustafizur Rahman said on Sunday that playing in the UAE-based ILT20 had been helpful for his preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

“Yes, it was good (for my World Cup preparation),” the left-arm pacer said when asked about his build-up at the Sylhet Osmani International Airport.

Mustafiz, who played eight matches for Dubai Capitals and took 15 wickets, is currently the second-highest wicket-taker of the league.

Another Bangladeshi quick, Taskin Ahmed, featured in six matches for Sharjah Warriorz and picked up nine wickets, while Shakib Al Hasan represented MI Emirates in five matches and took three wickets.

During his stay, Mustafiz said he enjoyed the Bangladeshi company in the tournament and expressed optimism about seeing more national team players featuring in overseas leagues.

“If our national team players play in those leagues — not just two or three — it always feels good,” he said.

Mustafiz and Taskin cut short their ILT20 campaigns to return home and join their respective Bangladesh Premier League franchises. Taskin will turn out for Dhaka Capitals, while Mustafiz will represent Rangpur Riders.