After securing their first ODI victory in New Zealand, Bangladesh is geared up for the challenge as they face the hosts in the initial match of a three-game T20I series at McLean Park in Napier today.

Despite losing the preceding three-match ODI series 2-1, the Tigers bounced back with a resounding nine-wicket win in the final ODI, breaking an 18-ODI losing streak in New Zealand. This uplifting triumph has set a positive tone within the Bangladesh camp as they approach the upcoming T20I series.

Bangladesh’s head coach, Chandika Hathurusingha, expressed the significance of the recent ODI win, stating, “Certainly, it [the win in the final ODI] will help mentally as when you have a good win, it always feels good. You may want to repeat it, regardless of the format.” He emphasized the team’s determination to secure their first T20 win against New Zealand on their home turf.

Having enjoyed a successful year in T20s, winning seven out of eight matches played so far, Bangladesh sees the upcoming T20I series as a crucial step in their preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup scheduled for June next year. Hathurusingha emphasized,

“We have eleven matches from now till the [2024 T20] World Cup, and that’s what we got in terms of matches. Whether the practice is ideal or not, that’s all we got, and we have to get our plans and roles right within this period.”

The new-look Bangladesh team, missing some senior players, aims to establish a settled rhythm in T20Is, a format historically challenging for the Tigers. The team management plans to assign specific roles to players as part of their preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

“We have not won a T20 here, and it was the same for the ODI format. But we managed to win our last game. In terms of plans, the conditions [in New Zealand] dictate proceedings as we need to plan by keeping that in mind. At the same time, we also want to keep one eye on the T20 World Cup as we make our plans,”

said Hathurusingha, highlighting the dual focus on the immediate series and the long-term goal.

Hathurusingha acknowledged that the majority of the current squad is expected to feature in the upcoming World Cup, while the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) next year will serve as a platform for players to break into the national side.

“The selectors will always have an eye on the performances in the BPL, and any in-form player or outstanding performance from someone will give them the edge to get selected. But at the same time, we know the style of play we want to follow, which is according to our strengths,”

added Hathurusingha, emphasizing the team’s unique approach.

The coach also praised the leadership qualities of Najmul Hossain Shanto, who has excelled in the role in the absence of regular skipper Shakib Al Hasan.

“I see a lot of positives in his leadership and tactical captaincy. I am very happy with the way he [Shanto] is conducting himself and getting the best out of the players while making clear communications as well. The last game was really world-class — given the way he handled the bowling resources in such a situation and condition.”