‘Wickets were good but we did not play good cricket’

Bangladesh lost the ODI series after New Zealand won both of the first two ODIs in emphatic fashion to clinch the series. Going into the third ODI in Dunedin, opener Tamim Iqbal said that Bangladesh did not even put up a good challenge for New Zealand.

Last year, the Tigers lost all three ODIs too but were capable of mounting a challenge but this time around, a clear lack of preparation and mental toughness were evident in the first two ODIs. The challenge was being able to adapt to conditions fast.

"Truth be told, the wickets were very good, especially in the first match. We knew that their two opening bowlers start very well and we gave away four wickets. The wicket was good in the second game as well but they had some help due to the weather and conditions at that time following the rain.

"Last time we put up a fight but this year there was no contest," Tamim said.

For the third ODI, Tamim was hopeful that the mistakes they made will not be repeated.

"Last year we played some good cricket but could not win but this year we have not been able to play good cricket.

The opener cited that not losing wickets early on would help the side to challenge New Zealand.

"Normally, the wickets here are good. If we don't lose too many wickets early on, then we can put some pressure on them," he concluded.