Mahmudullah bullish ahead of opener
Without the comforts of home advantage or spin-friendly tracks, Bangladesh will need to focus on proper planning and team combination as they begin their ICC T20 World Cup mission today in the opening game of the qualifiers against Scotland at the Al Amerat Cricket Stadium in Muscat.
Skipper Mahmudullah Riyad said there were no concerns after defeats in both official warm-up games against Sri Lanka and Ireland, but it will be important for the Tigers to remain on their toes against a confident Scotland.
Mahmudullah was rested for the two warm-up games after suffering a back injury but the 35-year-old informed he was ready to lead the Tigers and looking for a fresh start.
"I have recovered a lot since I suffered the back injury nine or ten months ago. That caused some problems which is why I didn't play the two practice matches. But I have fully recovered and hopefully I will be able to participate in tomorrow's game," Mahmudullah told media yesterday.
"We lost two practice matches but that won't have an effect. We are ready for tomorrow's game. Our confidence is intact and I hope we will be able to play our best cricket."
Pitches played a vital role in the Tigers recent series wins against Australia and New Zealand at home so it will be a big test for the Tigers, especially in Muscat, where they have played just one game -- a warm-up against Oman A in which the Tigers racked up over 200 runs.
Bangladesh head coach Russell Domingo was having a close look at the pitch during their final training session alongside spin-bowling coach Rangana Herath.
"I think the warm up game against Oman A had a sporting wicket. I hope it will remain the same, but I think we have to be prepared for any sort of conditions mentally. Only then will we be able to adapt if it varies. Hopefully we will be able to bring our best game," Mahmudullah added.
When asked whether he would again bank on a spin-heavy attack, Mahmudullah replied with a smile: "I can answer you now. No, we are not going for a spin- heavy attack."
There was also raging discussions about the opening slots and Mahmudullah informed that he would be counting on Liton Das and Naim Sheikh, adding that the team management was also considering Soumya Sarkar as an opening option after his decent outings in the warm-up games.
Meanwhile, Mushfiqur Rahim's lack of form with the bat, which has seen him make little impact in his last 9 games, is another area of concern.
"We all know how valuable he is for our team but it happens in shortest format that a batsman can miss out on scoring runs. We have no doubt about his calibre. He has proved over the years and we all believe he will make a comeback when the team needs him," said Mahmudullah.
Source: www.thedailystar.net
