Mashrafee, Bangladesh wicketkeeper Khaled Mashud and Sri Lankan captain Marvan Atapattu were kept in the standby list after a four-man selection panel had announced a 15-member Asian squad with only one Bangladeshi player in Mohammad Ashraful.

Mashrafee, who had earlier expressed his disappointment after being left out of the original squad was understandably happy with the sudden call-up.

"It is a surprise for me. I would have been happier if had I been included the first time. But still, it is an achievement," said the man dubbed 'Narail Express'. Mashrafee was on his way to his hometown Narail when he received the news on his cellphone.

"I am more interested in playing the matches rather than just being a part of the squad. If I get the chance, it would be great for the country. If I perform well, it will enhance our image."

Mashrafee and Ashraful will leave for South Africa on August 14 to take part in the series.