Nazmul optimistic about Tigers’ chances in Pak tour

Bangladesh's Nazmul Hossain, who had recently played some brilliant knocks in the just concluded BBPL to get the nod for the Pakistan T20 series, said that if Bangladesh can execute their plans, they can hope for success in the away tour.

The tour of Pakistan was mired in uncertainty due to security issues but the two boards were finally able to come to a mutual agreement last Tuesday. Bangladesh named a 15-member squad with Nazmul recalled back into the side.

He was the only batsman to strike a ton in this season's BBPL and was of the opinion that the lack of practice matches for the Pakistan tour was not going to be a factor. Bangladesh toured India last year and lack of preparations, especially for the Tests, saw them struggle in sporting wickets against India quicks. The tracks in Pakistan is expected to offer something similar.

"Most of us played and performed in the BPL and thus preparation-wise we are in good touch. I don't think it will be a big issue not playing preparation matches.

"Last year the wickets we played in were sporting wickets," he said while talking to reporters today.

"If our bowlers can bowl in the right areas, they will get help from the wicket. The wickets are also good for batsmen. If we can bowl according to our plan and our strengths, we will be able to score runs and pick up wickets. We are capable of doing that," he added.

Bangladesh go into the tour without their most reliable batsman in Mushfiqur Rahim. After the chastening defeats in India, will the absence of their star batsman add more concerns for Bangladesh during their Pakistan tour?

"We are not worried that in place of Mushfiqur bhai we may need to fulfill a big role. We are positive about focusing on our strengths and abilities and if we can do that then it won't be very problematic," Nazmul said.