Taskin Ahmed's decision to stay back in South Africa with the Bangladesh team for the entire series instead of going to play in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) was lauded by former skipper Mashrafe Bin Mortaza.

However, the veteran pacer said that whatever the rule that saw Taskin decline an offer from an IPL franchisee must be in place for all the members of the team in the future as well.  "Be it Taskin's decision or the board's, I think it was a positive one as commitment towards the national side should come first even though the world is moving in the opposite direction and arguments can be made for or against it," Mashrafe wrote regarding the issue on his official Facebook page yesterday.  

"However, the only issue is that whatever the rule is must be applied to everyone. Then the mentality of the players inside the team will be fresh and happy and that's what is needed for Bangladesh cricket," added Mashrafe. Taskin was made an offer to join Lucknow Super Giants for the upcoming season of IPL, set to begin on March 26, after the franchise's star English pacer Mark Wood was ruled out of the tournament due to an elbow injury.

Players usually do not give up the opportunity to play in the cash-rich IPL considering the financial gain and exposure in modern-day cricket that comes with it. However, Taskin, who is currently with the national team for their ongoing South Africa tour, passed on the opportunity after a discussion with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).

The board also did not want to give Taskin a NOC (No Objection Certificate) for IPL in the middle of a crucial series.  Mashrafe, however, assured Taskin that opportunities will follow him given that he keeps on doing the hard work.  "Keep playing well Taskin and offers will follow you. Your presence in the team made [some] angry three years ago but now you can see how important a position you hold in the team. So, everything is decided by the Almighty.

"And respect the few who were with you in this battle. Give your all when you play for the national side because there are thousands of players who crave the opportunity that you have. You may not have the same opportunity tomorrow so I hope that all the best cricketing moments of your career come while you donning the red and green. May Allah be with you, Ameen," Mashrafe added.