‘If we won those two games, it could have been different’

After yet another frustrating performance from Bangladesh in the ongoing T20 World Cup, this time against South Africa, a defeat which saw them succumb to their fourth successive loss in the Super 12 stage, captain Mahmudullah Riyad felt that their World Cup story could have been different if they had clinched the two close matches against Sri Lanka and West Indies respectively.

Bangladesh made it through to the Super 12 stage despite a loss to Scotland in their first qualifying match but following wins against Oman and PNG, their performances flattered to deceive in the Super 12 stage against more established sides.

Bangladesh were bowled out for just 84 in 18.2 overs on a pitch that was very good for fast bowling. Taskin Ahmed produced a fiery spell of swing bowling to trouble South Africa early, picking up two wickets for 18 runs, but in reality, Bangladesh did not have enough in their arsenal to cause serious trouble for the Proteas, who chased down the target with 6.3 overs and six wickets to spare.

"I think the wicket was pretty good to bowl on in the first half. We weren't good enough in the middle. That was a poor batting display, but having said that there was enough assistance in the pitch," Mahmudullah said in post-match ceremony following the defeat against South Africa which puts the Tigers out of contention for the semifinals.

Riyad commended Taskin's performance and a series of bad performances could have been avoided had they won close encounters. Bangladesh were in good positions during the games against Sri Lanka and West Indies but lost due to poor fielding, bowling or bad decisions with the bat.

"Taskin has been bowling well in this tournament. We had the choice between Taskin and Fizzy, but we went with Taskin because he has been bowling well. It's frustrating, but we could have won two games. If we had won those games, it would have been a different story," Mahmudullah concluded.