Bangladesh experienced a tough time against the Netherlands in their 2016 World Twenty20 first round opener last Wednesday. Defending a total of 153/7, the Tigers eventually clinched a slender eight-run win despite brief moments of confusion.
Dashing opening batsman Tamim Iqbal played a brilliant 58-ball 83 and it was followed by some outstanding bowling by the Tigers attack.
However, the Bangladesh middle-order came under the scanner yet again as Shakib al Hasan was dismissed for five and Mushfiqur Rahim departed without troubling the scorers. The experienced Tigers duo were hoping to put the bitter memories of their Asia Cup T20 performance firmly behind them. But it was not to be.
And ahead of the crucial first-round clash against Ireland, Tigers head coach Chandika Hathurusingha informed that the senior batsmen’s lack of form is a slight concern. Hathurusingha however, believes his charges will script a comeback, and soon.
“I would love them to score more runs. There are concerns with some senior players. We normally know that they are capable with more than what they are doing now. Team is not always going to fire with all seven or six batters. But we are fortunate that the guys who are getting in are making a good contribution and that takes the pressure off from some of the guys who are not doing well. I hope very soon these guys will also come into form and contribute for the team,” the former Sri Lankan international told the press conference previewing the Bangladesh-Ireland tie yesterday in the picturesque city of Dharamsala.
Hathurusingha said among other concerns, ground fielding and high catching are also worrying him a bit. Against the Dutch, Nasir Hossain dropped a set Peter Borren when the game was hanging finely in the balance.
The missed opportunity however, did not prove to be costly as the Netherlands skipper was caught by the same fielder just a few deliveries later.
“If you drop a catch you give chances to a player. It’s always a concern. If he is a good player, it can hurt. I think we are trying very hard. So there are some areas which still need to improve. We are still winning matches, that’s the good thing,” he added.
As for today’s opposition, Hathurusingha said Ireland will pose a stiff challenge of their credentials, despite their opening match loss against Oman.
“I know Ireland are a professional team, although they had a bit of a hiccup [Wednesday]. In T20 cricket, you can’t predict. Anything can happen, one over can change a game. So we expect to perform to our potential. I think if we play to our potential I expect us to win the game. The condition is going to be challenging for both the teams,” he explained.