Sri Lanka ODIs another probability to ‘bounce back’
Bangladesh returned residence yesterday after another disappointing performance, this time on Sri Lanka, where in fact the Tigers shed the two-meet Test series after a crushing 209-go defeat in the next Test.
The focus, however, has already been shifting to the 50-over format, with Sri Lanka ready to arrive in Bangladesh to be a part of a three-meet ODI series down the road this month. Selectors have already released a 23-member preliminary squad and the ones who were not part of the Sri Lanka tour have previously started training at the home of cricket in Mirpur.
The two-match Test series in Sri Lanka also saw the Tigers complete their World Test Championship stint, where time they have bagged simply 20 points -- for the drawn first Test in Pallekele.
Head coach Russell Domingo, who returned with the group, expressed disappointment about the World Test Championship performance. Even so, the South African was keen to seize the details in the approaching ODI series against Sri Lanka, which will be the main ICC ODI Super Group.
"Players could have three days of practice prior to the Eid vacation. It'll be good to possess Shakib [Al Hasan] and Mustafizur [Rahman] when they do arrive. Another series will make a difference as qualification tips are up for grabs. We need to bounce back again after a tough series in New Zealand," said Domingo.
Meanwhile, there have been rumours that the board would carefully take notice of the performances of the staff in Sri Lanka and that it would have an impact on Domingo's future as Tigers' head mentor. After the series defeat in the island country, it was discovered that the Bangladesh Cricket Board isn't satisfied with Bangladesh's functionality under Domingo's coaching.
There are even whispers that the board has started looking for alternatives to Domingo, therefore the upcoming real estate series against Sri Lanka is definitely an acid test for the 47-year-old. However, the board can be ready to give Domingo additional time before making your final decision.
"Not necessarily [concerned about future as Bangladesh brain coach]. I'm enjoying dealing with the players. I'm enjoying the set-up. There's of course work to be done. I think it is important to try and look at the point out of domestic cricket and the features the cricketers enjoy when we're not here as well. Of course, there were tough results. But I have began to hook up with the team well and I am confident in the years ahead," he added.
