Tillakaratne sees value of nurturing upcoming talents

Bangladesh women's team head coach, Hashan Tillakratne, believes patience is needed if the Tigresses are to find a foothold in international cricket.

Bangladesh suffered big losses against the big sides in the T20I World Cup in South Africa this year, losing all their games. Tillakratne, however, is certain that his side "will bring many exciting results in times to come" if given necessary "support and encouragement".

"Yes, they have the experience and the method to overcome all challenges. But then again, [in] women's cricket, you need to be more patient with them; it's not like men's cricket," the Sri Lankan told the media yesterday.

"They need that space; they need that confidence. You have to give them. I'm sure they are in a good frame of mind."

The Tigresses, who have a big assignment coming up as India are set to arrive next month for a T20I and ODI series, have been undergoing individual sessions at Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium -- which is set to host an international match for the first time since 2012 -- ahead of India's arrival on July 6. The ODI series beginning from July 16, also part of the 2022–2025 ICC Women's Championship, is a huge series to determine qualification for the 2025 World Cup while showing whether progress is in order.

"Going through the process is very much important. We have a very busy schedule. India is coming, then we have Asian Games in Pakistan. So, yes, we play to our potential, I am sure," added Tillakaratne, also a World Cup winner, who was roped in by the Bangladesh Cricket Board after he coached Sri Lanka women's side to the Women's Asia Cup final last year in Sylhet.

Players like Shorna Akter, Afia Prottasha and Rabeya Khan showed during the U-19 World Cup that younger stars are ready to take the next step. While veterans like skipper Nigar Sultana, Jahanara Alam, and Salma Khatun are still in the picture, Tillakaratne has been following the process of bringing in newer stars.

"Especially after the U19 World Cup, there are so many young and talented girls coming through. That is a very positive sign for Bangladesh cricket.

"We need to nurture them and we need to train them carefully, give them confidence, and bring them to the international stage. That is what we have been doing."