Bangladesh is optimistic that their recent maiden ODI victory in New Zealand will set the tone for success in the upcoming T20I series against the hosts. Breaking an 18-match ODI losing streak, Bangladesh looks to overcome their dismal T20I record in New Zealand, having lost all nine matches played in this part of the world.
Addressing the media ahead of the first T20I in Napier, Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha expressed confidence that the ODI win in Napier would boost the team’s mental resilience. “Certainly, it will help mentally when you have a good win. Always you feel good, and because you have done something you want to repeat again, no matter what the format is, and that will give us confidence leading into the T20Is,” he stated.
Bangladesh aims to maintain their unbeaten T20I streak, having won all three T20I series played in 2023 against England, Ireland, and Afghanistan at home. A T20I series triumph in New Zealand would be a significant accomplishment as the team prepares for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Looking ahead, Bangladesh is set to play 11 T20Is before the T20 World Cup, including matches against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. The players will also participate in the Bangladesh Premier League. Hathurusingha emphasized the importance of planning wisely, considering the conditions and aligning strategies with the T20 World Cup objectives.
Hathurusingha praised Soumya Sarkar for his outstanding performance, scoring a century in the second ODI and contributing with three wickets in the third game. Expressing satisfaction with Sarkar’s capabilities, the coach highlighted the significance of trust and confidence in the players’ success. He acknowledged the second ODI as a pivotal moment for Sarkar, emphasizing the team’s support and trust in his abilities.
