Bangladesh Under-19s will face New Zealand in their second Group B match of the Under-19 World Cup on Wednesday afternoon in Bulawayo, looking to recover from an opening defeat to India.
Azizul Hakim Tamim’s side began the tournament with a loss against India but still have a strong chance of progressing to the next round. For now, the focus is firmly on the New Zealand match, which is scheduled to start at 1.30pm local time. New Zealand’s opening fixture against the United States was abandoned due to rain, making weather a significant concern for Bangladesh.
Bangladesh fast bowler Al Fahad said the team had been preparing for wet conditions in Bulawayo. “It is the rainy season here,” Fahad said. “We are practising by adjusting to the situation and preparing according to these conditions. We even practised with a slightly wet ball, so we are not worried about the conditions. Insha Allah, we are very confident and we will do well in the next match.”
Fahad added that confidence remained high within the squad ahead of the remaining group games. “We have matches against New Zealand and the United States,” he said. “Everyone in the team is very confident looking ahead to these matches. Insha Allah, something good will happen.”
In their opening match at Queens Sports Club, a rain-affected contest reduced to 49 overs, India set Bangladesh a target of 239. Bangladesh’s chase faltered despite a half-century from captain Tamim, who made 51, and 37 from Rifat Beg. The rest of the batting line-up failed to build partnerships and wickets fell at regular intervals as Bangladesh were bowled out for 146.
Fahad, who took five wickets in the match, said he was keen to carry that form into the next game. “I have taken five wickets in two matches now,” he said. “That gives a lot of confidence going into the next match. Taking five wickets in any game always feels very good.”
