‘We need better plans to stay alive in the series’
Mohammad Salahuddin
Batting first, Bangladesh’s total appeared 20 runs short for the pitch, as acknowledged by senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin. However, he refrained from blaming the batters, stating they adapted well to the conditions.
"Perhaps we missed out on scoring an extra 20 runs due to a couple of slow overs. If we had capitalized on those, we could have created more pressure on the opposition," Salahuddin remarked in a BCB-released video.
"The players batted according to the nature of the wicket. Those who scored 60 could have pushed to 90, which would have been advantageous for the lower order."
The West Indies, led by Sherfane Rutherford’s maiden century and Shai Hope’s 80-plus innings, comfortably chased down the target, ending a six-year, 11-match winless streak against Bangladesh in ODIs.
Ahead of the crucial second ODI on Tuesday evening, Salahuddin emphasized the need to improve while respecting the strength of the West Indies.
"It was a close match. If we rectify our mistakes, we can bounce back. However, the West Indies are a strong team, and we need better plans to stay alive in the series," he stated.
The second ODI will begin at 7:30 PM Bangladesh time, with Bangladesh needing a victory to keep their series hopes alive.