Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha believes the ability to overcome the fear of failure has stood his charges in good stead throughout the 2015 ICC World Cup. In the past, the Tigers flourished and played with freedom when they were unmindful of a negative outcome and Hathurhusingha is of the opinion that their new mantra has paid off rich dividends as the free-spirited Bangladesh side ensured their maiden berth in the knockout stage of a World Cup.
“Our key was not to be afraid of failures which we have talked about throughout the tournament. I think the freedom to do whatever we want and to keep the belief in us was the key. We actually did that against England. Even against Scotland, while chasing over a 300+ target, we always backed ourselves to do well,” Hathurusingha told the media in Hamilton yesterday.
The Tigers will take on co-hosts New Zealand in their final Pool A match today and the former Lankan international informed that their recent head-to-head results will count for nothing against the high-flying hosts. Bangladesh have beaten the Kiwis seven times in their last seven ODIs.
“Actually, what happened previously is in the past now. And what we are doing now is important for us. Our total plan is surrounded with this game and we know that if we want to win, we have to give our best,” he said.
New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum has been a revelation in the World Cup so far, having blasted 249 runs off just 129 balls at an astonishing strike rate of 193.02 and according to the Tigers coach, they have set together a game-plan for the hard-hitting opener.
“He plays without fear, that’s his main strength. But, if we can play to our strengths and execute the game-plan, it will be the key to our success as he is one of their main players. We will be looking to dismiss him early in the innings,” he added.
Chances are that Bangladesh will finish fourth in Pool A which will set them up for a potential quarter-final tie against neighbours India but the 45-year old Bangladesh coach said he is not looking beyond the New Zealand game and signed off by saying they will play for a win today.
