Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz believes the appointment of Tamim Iqbal as president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Ad-Hoc Committee has provided an added boost to the national side ahead of the New Zealand series.
Miraz, who a few days ago played alongside Tamim at Mohammedan Sporting Club in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL), highlighted the advantage of having a recently retired cricketer in a leadership role.
"Since we have played cricket together, he understands us better. Having recently left the game, he knows what we need and what we prefer. That's a positive aspect for the players," Miraz said at a press conference at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
Tamim, who assumed his new role on April 7, has already taken steps to improve domestic cricket by increasing salaries and match fees, while also engaging informally with players.
Reflecting on their interaction, Miraz said, "We spoke to the president and told him the team is doing well. He has motivated us and said we need to continue playing good cricket the way we are."
Despite some off the field issues in Bangladesh cricket, Miraz insisted that external developments have not affected the squad's focus.
"We have practiced very well. As professional cricketers, what happens outside doesn't impact us in the same way. Our job is to perform," he added.
Bangladesh are set to face off New Zealand in a three-match ODI series starting tomorrow, with the first two games scheduled in Mirpur and the final match to be held in Chattogram.
All matches will begin at 11:00 am, followed by a three-match T20 series between the two sides. �"BSS
