Despite enjoying success against Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan on home soil, the Tigers have struggled to maintain consistency in away ODIs.
Their weaknesses have become increasingly evident even against opponents such as Zimbabwe and Afghanistan.
After losing to Zimbabwe in the UAE ODI Tri-Series, Bangladesh are now at risk of missing the final. However, opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim does not believe a lack of batting skills is the main reason behind their struggles.
Instead, he points to mindset, preparation and the team’s inability to perform collectively at their best.
Bangladesh were bowled out for 172 while chasing a target of 272 against Zimbabwe in their opening match. Such batting collapses are nothing new for the Tigers, particularly when chasing big totals in ODIs.
The pressure often mounts when they pursue targets of 300 or more, and losing wickets makes it increasingly difficult to build partnerships.
Ahead of Wednesday’s crucial clash against Afghanistan, Bangladesh must address those shortcomings. To keep their hopes of reaching the final alive, they need not only a victory but potentially a win by a substantial margin.
Speaking to the media before the match, Tanzid said he did not view the difference between Bangladesh’s home and away performances as a problem with their skills alone. He believes the team can succeed overseas if they maintain the same mindset and preparation they demonstrate at home.
“If it were a problem with our skills, we would struggle at home as well. If we can play away from home with the same mindset we have at home, prepare in the same way and perform well as a team, I think we can do really well,” Tanzid said.
The left-handed opener also stressed the need for a change in mindset when chasing big totals. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by targets of 300 or 350, he believes Bangladesh’s batters should break the chase into smaller, more manageable goals.
“If we stop thinking about 300 or 350 and instead set smaller targets, I think the task will become easier. We need to develop that kind of mindset,” he added.
However, Tanzid believes individual adjustments alone will not be enough. The team must also remain united, particularly after a disappointing defeat. He said the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had sent positive messages to help the players maintain their confidence.
According to Tanzid, the team must avoid creating a negative atmosphere and focus on working together.
He also urged his teammates not to become overly concerned about the reputation or strength of their opponents, but to approach every international match with the same level of preparation and concentration.
“We are like a family. Nobody wants anything negative to develop within this family. We all need to stay together and perform well as a team. Instead of thinking about whether the opposition is Zimbabwe or Australia, we need to approach every international match with the same focus and preparation,” he said.
