McKenzie impressed by Bangladesh cricketers' work ethic
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||Desk Report||
Bangladesh batting consultant Neil McKenzie joined the Tigers for their Asia Cup preparations on Monday (September 3). However, rather than the continental supremacy, the former South Africa opener is interested in the ICC World Cup.
“I felt I can add value to Bangladesh in terms of their batting. I saw a lot of talent. I have been impressed by their work ethic, their bat speed, and general knowledge. The World Cup next year is the first prize,” he said.
McKenzie, whose career-best innings came in a Test against Bangladesh in 2008, will now give batting lessons to the batters of the same country. He was a stalwart in the middle-order for South Africa during his playing days after spending a big chunk of his career as an opening batsman, an endeavor where he didn’t taste much success.
“Being involved in any international side is good. I enjoyed my time with South Africa but I knew all the guys there. I have obviously played against Bangladesh quite a bit.
“The Bangladesh guys are open to learning, they ask questions the whole time. It will be a good fit and communication. But I am not scared to talk,” said the 42-year-old.
McKenzie has previously worked with the Proteas as a batting coach and will apply his knowledge while coaching the Tigers accordingly.
Regarding his style of consultation, he said: “I try to sum up the situation. I read guys and their different personalities. Extroverts will come and tell you his problem. You find out what the guy wants. Some guys want to be chatted to just after getting out, some guys like to be left alone.
“I have to get the relationship and trust going. I have to know the guys. You talk about head positions, hands or shoulder. It takes time to build that relationship and language.
“I will do anything to benefit the team. The team always comes first. If talking to someone benefits the team, I’d do it. I don’t talk for the sake of talking. Some coaches want to show how much they know. I am not that type of guy. I try to hang back, do the work and get to know the guys’ technical side.”
