Bangladesh opening batter Tanzid Hasan Tamim has called on the top order to show greater accountability ahead of their crucial tri-series fixture against Afghanistan on Wednesday.
The national team faces immediate elimination following a disappointing 100-run defeat to hosts Zimbabwe in their opening One Day International. Set a target of 272 in Harare, Bangladesh folded for just 172, raising further questions regarding their inability to replicate home form on foreign soil. To reach the final, Bangladesh must not only defeat Afghanistan but do so by a significant margin to improve their net run rate.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the must-win encounter, Tanzid dismissed claims that technical shortcomings are causing Bangladesh’s recurring overseas collapses. “If we had a skill issue, we would have struggled at home as well,” Tanzid said. “If we can play abroad with the same mindset and preparation that we show at home, and perform well as a team, I think it will yield very good results.”
Addressing the team’s struggles when chasing 300-plus totals in modern ODI cricket, Tanzid suggested breaking large targets into manageable mini-goals rather than fixating on the final scoreboard projection. “If we play by setting small targets instead of thinking about 300 or 350, I think the job will become easier,” he explained. “We need to build our mindset in that manner.”
Tanzid admitted that the batting unit failed to take ownership during the run chase against Zimbabwe, pointing out that the surface played well enough to reach the target. “We could not take responsibility in our batting department,” Tanzid admitted. “The pitch was good enough, and I felt this target was chasable. I felt very good while batting, but unfortunately got out. However, I think all of us should take responsibility.”
Looking ahead to future matches, Tanzid stressed the need for top-order batters to build longer innings. “My responsibility will be to bat with greater accountability, play 20 to 25 overs, extend the innings, and take the team to a good position,” he added.
