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Bangladesh need to guard against complacency: Razzak


Bangladeshpost
Published : 02 Jul 2021 08:28 PM

Agencies

In the recent past, Bangladesh may have dominated against Zimbabwe, but Bangladesh’s newly-appointed selector Abdur Razzak feels that the tourists need to guard against complacency as he believes Zimbabwe can put up a strong show in their own territory.

Bangladesh started their first practice session on Thursday at the Harare Sports Club, where they are scheduled to play the limited overs series, comprising three ODIs and three T20Is, following their one-off Test in Bulawayo.

“If we treat Zimbabwe the way we treat them at our den, then I am hundred percent sure the series will be difficult for us,” he said. “They are going to do better in their own conditions than they did in Bangladesh, and they have the ability to make a comeback faster than us.

“The pace bowlers dominate here, just like the spinners dominate in our country but the spinners also have a vital role to play, as in some situations, they need to contain the runs, as well as getting breakthroughs if the pacers struggle at some point. It's not like these wickets aren't spin-friendly at all, here.” Bangladesh will be hoping that two of their senior cricketers - Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim - who are recovering from knee and finger injuries respectively, will be fit for the opening Test. Tamim had already consulted Australian David Young and was suggested a long rest, but the southpaw is trying his best to be available for the Test and ODI series.

 Mushfiqur’s fractured finger is likely to take some time to heal.

BCB have already included Mahmudullah in the Test squad as a backup for the senior cricketers. All the members of the foreign coaching staff reached Zimbabwe apart from physiotherapist Julian Calefeto, who is having a passport issue, and was replaced by Bayezidul Islam for the Zimbabwe series.

Bangladesh’s newly-appointed spin consultant Rangana Herath and batting consultant Ashwell Prince also had their first day at work. “Herath has come with us, he is an experienced player,” Razzaq said. “He was quite a star when he used to play. He is working as a bowling coach now, and I’m sure that Herath would be able to share a lot of tips with our bowlers. And if I’m also needed, alongside Herath, I’ll always be there for them.”