Bangladesh recently played against the India women’s team in a five-match T20I series at home, losing all matches to the visitors. Following this defeat, the Tigresses aim to rebound, with the Women’s Asia Cup in Sri Lanka starting on July 19 offering a crucial opportunity. As they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup at home in October, they face challenges in overcoming recent setbacks. Hashan Tillakaratne, Bangladesh’s Head Coach, discussed strategies for recovery in an interview with The Daily Star’s Abdullah Al Mehdi.
As Jahanara Alam returns to the squad for the Asia Cup, Hashan Tillakaratne comments on the changes he’s observed in Jahanara Alam upon her return, noting her strong performance in the Premier League as the leading wicket-taker. He emphasized that Alam has developed a better understanding of her own game and gained experience in bowling across various conditions, which he views as a positive addition to the team.
Quoting Tillakaratne, “I thought she had a very good Premier League and was the highest wicket-taker. Now she has started to understand her own game and has experience of bowling in different conditions. It’s good to have her back. She has experience and she has been sharing her knowledge with the other bowlers which brings a very positive mood to the side.”
Jahanara Alam, a 31-year-old right-arm medium bowler, last represented the national team on May 12, 2023, against Sri Lanka at Colombo (SSC). She debuted in T20I nearly 12 years ago and has since appeared in 78 matches, claiming more than 55 wickets.
Regarding skipper Nigar Sultana Joty, Tillakaratne acknowledged the high expectations placed on her due to her role as a top batter. He highlighted her capability to handle pressure situations, lead the team out of trouble, manage wicket-keeping duties, and meet expectations effectively, expressing gratitude for having such a talented player in the team.
“Yes, lots of pressure on her since she is one of our top batters. Sometimes she has to take the side out of trouble and consolidate. So, there are lots of things she has to do along with keeping wickets and managing expectations. She is very capable and understands her game well. We are fortunate to have someone like her,” Tillakaratne stated.
Tillakaratne expressed his ambitions for the Asia Cup by stating that their goal is to win the tournament. He emphasized the team’s confidence in their abilities to defeat any opponent, stressing the importance of bringing their best performance and highlighting their meticulous preparation leading up to the event.
He said, “We are going there to win the tournament. We have the credentials to beat any side. We have to go and play our A game and the preparation has been spot on.”
Tillakaratne also addressed concerns about batting mishaps in recent series, acknowledging that several players are competing for spots in the team with the upcoming World Cup in sight. He identified a fear of failure among the players as a factor contributing to a cautious approach, resulting in a reluctance to play shots freely. Tillakaratne mentioned discussions held to encourage players to free their minds and showcase their true talents on the field, emphasizing the importance of allowing players to express themselves without reservation.
“Quite a few players are pushing for their places in the side. Obviously, everyone wants to play in the World Cup and there is a bit of fear of failure. That’s one of the reasons that often they look like they are negative and fearful of playing their shots. We have spoken about it – about how they can free their minds. We haven’t seen their true talents yet, but we want them to go out there and express themselves,” Tillakaratne said.
(Quotes sourced from The Daily Star)