Published: 12:13 PM, 14 April 2026
Minhajul calls for full focus as Bangladesh prepare for NZ series
BCB to prepare Int'l standard wicket for NZ series
Speaking to media, Minhajul said every point is now critical for securing direct World Cup qualification.-Agencies
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Director MinhajulAbedinNannu has urged the team to approach the upcoming New Zealand series with full focus, stressing that no opposition can be taken lightly at this stage of the qualification cycle.
Bangladesh must finish inside the top eight of the ICC ODI rankings to remain in contention for direct qualification to the next ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, making the upcoming home series against the New Zealand a crucial assignment for the hosts.
With the qualification race tightening, the Bangladesh national cricket team are under increasing pressure to secure valuable ranking points in their remaining fixtures.
The three-match ODI series against New Zealand begins on April 17. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Minhajul said every point is now critical for securing direct World Cup qualification and warned against complacency despite New Zealand arriving without several first-choice players due to IPL commitments and injuries.
He acknowledged New Zealand's depth and adaptability, stating that the visitors remain a strong side capable of competing in any conditions.
"Every point is very valuable for us now to play directly in the World Cup. New Zealand are a good enough team. Even though we are playing at home, if we take this series lightly, we can be in danger again," he said.
He further added that consistency and execution would be key for Bangladesh in the upcoming matches.
Addressing concerns over the team's batting form, particularly the opening and middle-order instability, Minhajul defended the management's approach of backing players for an extended run.
He stressed that judging international cricketers requires patience, suggesting that players should be given at least five to six innings before being fairly assessed.
"To judge a player in international cricket, you have to give him at least five or six innings. If you suddenly drop someone after two or three innings, it is not possible to get the expected results," he said.
Bangladesh are expected to rely on home conditions but face scrutiny over recent inconsistency as they prepare for a high-stakes series that could influence their World Cup qualification prospects.
Meanwhile, BCB has intensified its focus on ground preparation ahead of the upcoming home series against the New Zealand national cricket team, with work already underway to improve wickets and outfields at designated venues.
The series is scheduled to be held in Dhaka and Chattogram, where the board has instructed ground staff to ensure conditions meet international standards despite the challenges posed by the ongoing rainy season.
Grounds Committee Chairman Rafiqul Islam Babu said they are keen to produce quality wickets that will allow competitive cricket while maintaining equality for both sides.
"We want good wickets where both teams can play comfortably. There will be no shortage of international standards," he said, adding that some consideration may be given to conditions that offer a degree of home advantage.
The BCB's Grounds Department, operating under the newly-formed ad hoc committee, is implementing a structured plan focusing on overall ground committee. Priority areas include maintaining an effective drainage system, proper use of covers, and preserving outfield quality amid seasonal rains.
Officials have been directed to submit detailed reports on the current condition of the selected venues within the next two days. Further steps will be determined based on those assessments.
"These matters were discussed. I have asked for reports on each ground, both domestic and international venues selected, within two days. After receiving them, we will take necessary steps," Rafiqul Islam Babu said.
