Bangladesh coach warns players not to take Malaysia lightly

Bangladesh head coach Mohammad Salahuddin has urged his players not to think about the semi-finals or final ahead of their opening match against Malaysia at the Asian Games, stressing that they must focus on winning their first game.

Speaking to reporters in Japan on Sunday, Salahuddin said the opening match would be particularly important as Bangladesh are returning to T20 cricket after a long break.

“I think our first match is very important. 

When you play a match directly after being without one for five to seven days, it can be difficult. We should think about our first match rather than looking too far ahead,” he said.

Asked about Bangladesh’s previous difficult quarter-final against Malaysia at the Asian Games, Salahuddin said he had considerable experience of the Malaysian side, having worked with them for a long time.

He warned that unexpected results could occur in tournaments of this nature, with the pitch being used repeatedly and the toss potentially playing a role.

“Every match is very important. We should not think that we have already won. We have to win by playing the game. That is how we are preparing mentally,” he said.

Salahuddin also played down the importance of late addition Aliss Al Islam, saying every player in the squad was important.

“We will play according to the team’s strategy on the day. I would not single out any one player as being more important than the others,” he said.

The Bangladesh coach said the Asian Games cricket competition should not be considered less important than regular ICC events, particularly because of the expectations of people in Bangladesh.

He said the prospect of winning a medal had provided additional motivation to the players and the coaching staff.

“We know how important this is and we are working accordingly. We have no shortage of motivation. Inshallah, we will do well,” Salahuddin said.

sks