‘They have to deliver big-time’

Bangladesh ODI skipper Tamim Iqbal probably did the right thing as captain by backing his teammates when questions were raised regarding some of the areas of his team ahead of the Tigers' three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka.

Questions ranged from the ability of Mushfiqur Rahim as a wicketkeeper after the veteran dropped crucial chances in recent times to the potential of Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar, who are yet to prove consistency over the past five years or so. 

An elegant batsman when on-song, Liton has failed to score consistently since making his international debut six years ago.

Despite an average of 28.88 in 42 ODIs and three fifties and three hundreds to his name, Liton has had a poor 2021, scoring just 76 in his last six ODI innings.

On the other hand, Soumya -- another highly rated talented left-hander -- has been seeking consistency and assurance despite apparently possessing all the tools to become a world-class batsman.

Mushfiqur Rahim turned up in Mirpur yesterday on a day of optional training, will have to step it up as Bangladesh face Sri Lanka in the first of the three-match ODI series tomorrow. The visitors played an intra-squad practice match in BKSP yesterday. PHOTO: FIROZ AHMED/BCB

Although a lack of consistency is still the concern for players like Liton or Soumya, Tamim believed the two have to deliver big time.

"I hope they take the lead. They have a tremendous amount of potential, but they have to deliver big time. We have seen glimpses from Liton and Soumya but if they do well now, it will help the team. They understand they should be more consistent - like Mushfiqur Rahim, for example. If they become consistent, we will be a better ODI team at home and away," Tamim said during a virtual press conference ahead of the three-match ODI series yesterday.

Moreover, Bangladesh's fielding and catching are still a cause for concern.

Mushfiqur, who has been the most consistent batsman for the Tigers and has kept wickets in 347 international matches, remained sloppy behind the stumps on the New Zealand tour in March this year, dropping two chances in the ODI series and also missing a crucial opportunity against West Indies at home in January.

Tamim opined that it is Mushfiqur's experience that makes him the top choice for the upcoming series.

"I am very happy with his wicketkeeping. [Half] chances and dropped catches are part of the game. I know how hard he works, so I have no complaints. The team management, coach and I definitely want him to keep wickets in the three ODIs.

"You are talking about some dropped catches but he has done a wonderful job as a wicketkeeper over the past 13-14 years. I have complete trust in him and give him my full support. I think he should continue to keep wickets for Bangladesh," he said.

Tamim will know that improving in these areas and ironing out small mistakes could be the deciding factor. But the Tigers' ODI captain will hope that his teammates prove him right and show some consistency as the Tigers aim to get back to winning ways. Otherwise, Tamim may have to return to defend his players again in the coming days.