‘Tried to keep family calm’, says Rishad after returning from Pakistan

Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain said he tried to keep his family calm amid rising tensions in Pakistan during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he was playing for Lahore Qalandars in his maiden overseas franchise stint.

The 21-year-old returned to Dhaka this afternoon along with pacer Nahid Rana after the PSL was suspended due to escalating India–Pakistan tensions and an incident near the Rawalpindi Stadium.

"We heard about the situation, and yes, we were a bit scared," Rishad told reporters at the airport. "Everyone supported us—from the team management to the BCB. They were constantly checking in."

Rishad also shared how he tried to comfort his teammates in Pakistan. "Nahid Rana was a bit shaken and remained quiet. I kept telling him not to worry, that we were together. And of course, Allah is with us," said Rishad.

Rishad impressed in the PSL, picking up nine wickets in five matches for Lahore Qalandars before the tournament was abruptly halted following reports of a blast near a match venue and growing concerns among participating foreign players.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) arranged for the safe return of Rishad and Nahid via a special flight to Dubai before they arrived home on Saturday.

Nahid, who had joined Peshawar Zalmi after making his Test debut against Zimbabwe in Sylhet, did not feature in a single PSL match. 

"Being outside your country is already a challenge, but when the host country is on the brink of war, the fear hits differently," said Rishad. "I tried to keep my family calm too, telling them positive things so they wouldn't worry."

Although eight matches remain in the PSL and his team is still in contention for the playoffs, Rishad admitted he would carry some hesitation if the tournament resumes.

"If the tournament resumes, I'd like to play," he said. "But yes, the fear will remain."