Rishad should play ‘every single league possible’, says Malan

Bangladesh's leg-spinner Rishad Hossain has earned glowing praise from former England international Dawid Malan, who believes the young bowler has the potential to be a decisive force in white-ball cricket.

"He looks fantastic," said Malan, who is playing alongside Rishad for Fortune Barishal in the ongoing 11th edition of Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

"I think it's really encouraging that Bangladesh have a leg-spinner. Look at the top international teams -- they all have leg-spinners," he added. 

Apart from BPL, Rishad has so far played in Australian Big Bash League, Canadian Global T20 League and most recently Pakistan Super League. Malan believed that more T20 franchise contracts should arrive for the 22-year-old, a "hell of a talent" in his opinion. 

"They are so tough to play. If you have one, they are able to win you games in white-ball cricket. The challenge is to get him to play as much as you can. The more competitions he can play, the more developed he gets. He should play every single league possible, because it's the only way to get better and improve... He is tall, turns the ball both ways, he has got a lot of skills, and he can bat as well," said Malan, who once topped the T20I batters' ranking.

Malan has so far played just one match this season, his sole appearance featuring an unbeaten 49 off 41 balls in an eight-wicket win against Dhaka Capitals on Thursday. The 37-year-old expressed gratitude to Bangladesh cricket for helping shape his career.

"You know, I played in the DPL years ago, and it feels like 11–12 years now since that happened. I always find my way back here. I'm always, forever grateful for the BPL, the DPL, and Bangladesh cricket for helping my development by allowing me to play in these leagues. Without it, I would not have been the player I am today. Being back in Bangladesh cricket is always a pleasure," said Malan.