‘Playing in India is always very enjoyable’

Bangladesh ODI captain Tamim Iqbal exuded confidence ahead of the 10-team ICC ODI World Cup and expected his team to adjust well to the conditions in India.

Bangladesh will begin their campaign against Afghanistan on October 7 in in the hill city of Dharamsala. 

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday revealed the fixtures and the 10 venues for the upcoming mega event which is set to begin on October 5 with a repeat of the 2019 final as England take on New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

"This is the ultimate event. Nothing compares to a one-day World Cup because this is the most challenging white-ball format which continuously tests your game awareness and temperament," Tamim told the ICC.

"The tournament's structure gives you no scope to relax. Every team is tough and there are no easy games," he added.

"Playing in India is always very enjoyable. The electric atmosphere, great stadiums and the very knowledgeable cricket fans make the experience fulfilling. We have always received excellent support whenever we played there.

"I am very confident with the side we will take to the World Cup. We have been performing at a very high level in ODIs and were one of the leading sides in the World Cup qualifying. There is a nice blend of experience and talent, and the conditions will be familiar, " the left-handed concluded.

Eight teams have qualified for the 46-day event through the Cricket World Cup Super League while the final two spots will be taken by the finalists of the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier taking place in Zimbabwe.

The tournament retains the round-robin format of last time with all teams playing against each other for a total of 45 league matches. There are six day matches in the tournament while all other matches, including the knockouts, will be day-night fixtures.

The top four teams will qualify for the semi-finals to be played in Mumbai on 15 November and in Kolkata on 16 November. The semi-finals and the final will have reserve days.

Bangladesh fixtures at World Cup

07 October – vs Afghanistan, Dharamsala
10 October – vs England, Dharamsala
14 October – vs New Zealand, Chennai
19 October – vs India, Pune
24 October – vs South Africa, Mumbai
28 October – vs Qualifier 1, Kolkata
31 October – vs Pakistan, Kolkata
06 November – vs Qualifier 2, Delhi
12 November – vs Australia, Pune