Duminy: Bangladesh have nothing to lose

Interim South Africa captain JP Duminy believes theT20I series will be competitive, although Bangladesh did not perform well in either the Test or the ODI series against the host. Duminy said they are expecting a tough fight from the visitor and that since the Tigers have nothing to lose, the home side are not taking the opposition lightly. South Africa’s regular captain Faf du Plessis injured himself during the third and final ODI at Buffalo Park in East London Sunday and was subsequently ruled out for at least six weeks. “The T20I series can be dangerous as Bangladesh have nothing to lose. Our main target as a team is focusing in what we want to do. And our main aim is 2-0. Obviously we are confident. We believe we have players and talent to win the series. But we know it’s going to be a tough contest. They have some world-class players,” said Duminy to the media during the pre-match press conference at Mangaung Oval Wednesday.

Kicking it up a notch in Bloemfontein’s scorching conditions. ?? #ProteaFire #SAvBAN pic.twitter.com/3QicPKrpSi

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) October 25, 2017

“Yes, they are dealing with some injuries, which may help us in some way. But again, it is an opportunity for young players to perform well in that vacant place which can cause a problem for us. But we are trying to focus on our game,” he added. Bangladesh are missing some key players in the form of opener Tamim Iqbal and pacer Mustafizur Rahman while the young cricketers haven’t performed well in the tour so far. Duminy admitted it’s tough for the youngsters to play well, particularly in an away series, but added that they still have the opportunity to shine in the T20I series.

Bloemfontein,it's time to inspire #ProteaFire one last time as the #KFCT20 comes to you tomorrow! Tickets @ https://t.co/1lqITTzIju. #SAvBAN pic.twitter.com/AlGMPSbRrB

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) October 25, 2017

“Look, it’s always difficult when you play away from home. Especially for a new guy, he is obviously used to his home condition. Because he hasn’t traveled a lot. So it’s about acclimatising as quickly as possible. It’s not an easy process. I am not surprised, but again, it’s another opportunity for young players. You got nothing to lose. And I am sure there are some players who will put up their hands,” Duminy explained. So far, Duminy has captained South Africa three times in T20Is, against Australia two and a half years ago. But the Proteas had lost that series 2-1. But this time around, the left-handed batsman is aiming to win the series on home soil.