Batting lets Kayes down

BCB-XI skipper Imrul Kayes expressed his disappointment with the way his side batted against South Africans in the T20 practice match at Fatullah yesterday, as his charges scored just 99 before being bowled out.

"Actually we were in a bit of a hurry. We batted without a plan. Had our top order given us a good start, we could have scored 140 and done better.

"The wicket was a bit two-paced. There was no other problem with it. That should not be a big deal for anyone in international cricket," Imrul told reporters after the match yesterday.

After the thumping defeat yesterday, talks regarding how the South Africa series could possibly be more difficult in comparison to the ones against Pakistan and India dominated Bangladesh's cricket forums online.

Imrul however, refused to be drawn into that debate.

"International cricket doesn't work that way. It's not about wondering which side is better than the other. You have to have the belief that you can beat any side, no matter what," said Imrul.

On the other hand, South African slow left-armer Aaron Phangiso was extremely happy with the way the visitors began the tour.

"Bangladesh is not an easy tour and to win like this is satisfying because the guys have been working hard under hot conditions,” said Phangiso.

However, the spinner wasn't pleased with the wicket and hoped that the groundsmen could produce more turning tracks in the coming days.

"I think this wicket was tough to bowl on because there was no turn. So you had to bowl it a little bit quicker.

"As a spinner you had to think on your feet. When you come to Bangladesh, you expect the wicket to turn a little bit, but we didn't get anything today. let's hope the groundsmen do something different," said Phangiso.

The visitors used a three-man spin attack yesterday with Phangiso, JP Duminy and youngster Eddie Leie. Leie, the uncapped leg-spinner, was particularly impressive.

"He is a quality bowler. We played in the same franchise back home for the Lions. He was the leading wicket-taker for the T20s in a league in South Africa, so he deserves to be here," said Phangiso.