Bangladesh began their Asia Cup campaign by declaring their ambition of lifting the trophy, though the road ahead is far from easy. Despite recent series wins, doubts remain over their chances, with critics quick to dismiss their potential.
Among them was former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin, who sparked debate with a blunt remark on his YouTube channel.
“What do I even say about Bangladesh? I don’t know. They have some ability in bowling, but apart from Litton in batting, I don’t see much class. We don’t even talk about Bangladesh, because there’s nothing to talk about.”
His words drew frustration from Bangladesh supporters on social media, but the players themselves appeared unfazed. Ahead of Bangladesh’s second Group B match against Sri Lanka on 13 September, pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib responded in the pre-match press conference.
“You can’t stop anyone from speaking. I have a mouth, I can say whatever I want especially those who aren’t under any contract. Who said what or didn’t say what, these things don’t really matter,” he said.
Tanzim, who took 2 for 21 in the seven-wicket victory over Hong Kong on 12 September in Abu Dhabi, insisted that Bangladesh remain focused on their own objectives.
“We represent Bangladesh. We’ve come here with a target. We’ll give our best. Whether a big team calls us small or whatever else they say, we don’t have the time to worry about that.”
The build-up to the clash with Sri Lanka has been heightened by recent heated encounters between the two sides, but Tanzim stressed that the players would not let emotions dictate their performance.
“Look, as professional cricketers when we step onto the field, we try to follow the process. Fans will get emotional, that’s natural. But as professionals, if we also become emotional, that won’t work.”
