Winning momentum makes Bangladesh favourites, says Naim
Mohammad Naim during SL series, Cricfrenzy
Bangladesh’s overall record against Pakistan in T20 Internationals is far from impressive — no wins since 2016 and a whitewash in the last series. However, left-handed opener Mohammad Naim is optimistic ahead of the upcoming three-match series, backing the hosts to perform better on home soil.
Fresh from a T20 series win over Sri Lanka, Bangladesh will face Pakistan in the opening match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur on Sunday.
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The Tigers returned home on Thursday and most players opted to rest on Friday, an optional training day. But Naim chose to hit the nets for a solo batting session that lasted nearly an hour and a half.
Speaking to the media afterward, the 25-year-old confidently declared Bangladesh as favourites.
“Of course, we back ourselves when playing at home. We’ll do the same this time,” Naim said.
However, history tells a different story. During their tour to Pakistan earlier this year in May-June, Bangladesh failed to compete in any of the three T20s. Prior to that, in 2021, they were also whitewashed in a home series.
Bangladesh have not beaten Pakistan in a full international T20 since the 2016 Asia Cup. Though they did secure a win in the 2023 Asian Games, that tournament featured second-string squads from both sides.
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Out of 22 T20Is between the two nations, Bangladesh have managed just three wins.
He pointed to the momentum gained from their recent success against Sri Lanka, especially highlighting the contrast in bowling performance.
“In Pakistan, most of the matches were high-scoring. We scored 190-200 runs but couldn’t defend them. But against Sri Lanka, our bowling was much improved,” he explained.
“Right now, our bowlers are in great rhythm. As a teammate, I’ve seen them up close, and they’re in very good shape. If we can maintain this form, we can definitely take advantage of the home conditions.”
With all three matches set to be played in Mirpur, Naim believes Bangladesh will benefit from their familiarity with the conditions.
“We’re coming in with a winning momentum from the Sri Lanka series, and we’ll try to maintain that. We all know what usually happens at Mirpur, even though I haven’t seen the wicket yet. But the team is in a good place,” he added.
“I did my individual training today. The team’s momentum is strong, and we’ll try to carry it forward. There's no point dwelling on the past. Since we’re in a good rhythm, we’ll look to keep it going.”
