ZCZC
BSP-27
CRICKET-MIRAZ-U19
Miraz upbeat about Bangladesh’s chance to lift U19 WC trophy
DHAKA, Feb 8, 2020 (BSS)-Mehidy Hasan Miraz, the former Bangladesh Under-19
captain pinned high hopes on his successors as he believes that this team has
the ability to beat India and lift the ICC Under-19 World Cup trophy.
To get their hands on the most coveted trophy, Bangladesh youths will take
on mighty India Under-19 team tomorrow (Sunday) at Senwes Park in
Potchefstroom in South Africa. It is however, the first time that the
Bangladeshi youths were able to move into the final of the tournament.
Miraz’s side was so far the most successful Under-19 team for Bangladesh
when they finished in third position in 2016 edition, hosted by Bangladesh.
“I want them to finish it off well. What is most pleasing is to see that
they have been playing well in all three departments,” Miraz said here today,
wishing good luck to the Akbar Ali and company.
“I hope they will lift the title. Everyone has high expectation on this
team this time around. Bangladesh has never won the Under-19 World Cup
trophy. But this team they reached the final, which itself is a big
achievement,” he added.
But like the senior team, the junior Bangladesh team also has the mental
block against India as they lost some matches in knock-out phases despite
coming so close-notably in the Tri-nation tournament final in England and
Asia Cup final.
Miraz said the young Tigers need to play their natural game against India,
forgetting what happened in the past.
“We have lost so many close matches against India. We are unfortunate but
tomorrow should be a different day if we play our best cricket. The way the
players are playing, I am quite confident about their chance. They should not
feel pressure by thinking what happened in the past. Rather they should
forget the past and concentrate on playing their best cricket. I think if
they play their natural game, they can beat India and lift the title,” he
said.
Miraz said, “India definitely is a quite strong team and they are really
playing good cricket. They are quite experienced. I know overcoming Indian
hurdle will be tougher for us. But for us, there is no chance to look back as
we are in the final now. If we can win the final, it will take our cricket in
another height and this fact should be an inspiration for all of our
players.”
Miraz however was reluctant to give them any tips rather emphasized on
playing their natural game.
“There is no tip from my end for the final. I just want them to play the
game that they are playing throughout the tournament and if they can play
that game, I think it will be enough to beat India. I want every Bangladeshi
people to support them. I wish them a good luck for the final,” he added.
BSS/SMP/ARS/1923 hrs