The Bangladesh women’s squad was dealt an injury scare ahead of Saturday’s (July 22) showdown against India in the three-match ODI series at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
Shorna Akter, who experienced stomach problems during the first game of the ODI series, did not play the second and is doubtful to play in the series finale. Furthermore, because to the heat in the second game, skipper Nigar Sultana vomited numerous times, forcing her to change her batting position and now seems dubious.
“She (Shorna) is unfit at the moment,” Bangladesh women’s head coach Hashan Tillakaratne told reporters ahead of Friday’s crucial match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.
“Yes, Joty (Nigar Sultana) is still not fully fit, and we will have a fitness test tomorrow, and we will take a call tomorrow morning,” he said, adding that they expect a stronger performance in the last game.
“They are self-assured. Just the second game did not go as planned. Following the previous game, we had a few discussions. We’ve devised several strategies. “The players are now very confident, and we are hoping for a good performance tomorrow,” he stated.
Tillakaratne also stated that the consistency of their batting unit is a major concern, but that they must be more patient with them because they have invested in them.
“Yes, (batting) is a major worry. The most difficult part is getting in after a solid start and not throwing your wicket away. So, with the score 103-3 after the 29th over, we thought we were on track to meet the required run rate, but losing Pinky at that point cost us the game,” Tillakaratne explained.
“The main concern is eating a lot of dot balls.” We’ve had a couple conversations. “I am confident they will put on a good show tomorrow,” he added, adding that Murshida Khatun needs to be more consistent with the bat.
“Yes, she (Murshida) is one of our technically correct batters, and she also got a good start in the first game and threw away her wicket.” That is where we must collaborate with them and be patient with them. We have invested in them, and I am confident they will succeed,” he said, adding that their fitness needs to be improved.
“If you watch them closely, I believe they are technically sound, but the mindset is not there to play long innings, so we need to work with them.” Also, the fitness is a little lacking, therefore we are currently working with them. We have a new trainer from England working with them, and after this series, we will have a six-week fitness camp, and I am confident they will improve,” he continued.
