Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] Bangladeshi batsman Mominul Haque has dismissed the notion that inadequate preparation was to blame for their lackluster performance in the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. Despite the team facing a daunting challenge in the second Test in Chattogram, where they needed 243 more runs to win with only three wickets remaining, Mominul refrained from using it as an excuse.
He acknowledged that although the team had been engaged in considerable white-ball cricket before the series, it didn’t necessarily mean that playing a four-day game would have made a significant difference.
He candidly expressed the vast disparity between Bangladesh’s first-class cricket and the international stage, describing it as “like night and day,” especially highlighting his own experiences in the NCL where he faces little to no challenge, contrasting sharply with the demands of Test cricket.
“I don’t think there was any lack of preparation. Everyone played white-ball cricket. [But] It is not given that we would have prepared better playing a four-day game,” he said. “How far off is our first-class cricket from the international level? It won’t sound nice but there’s a huge gap. It is like night and day. Everyone knows about it. I am not making an excuse. I play in the NCL (country’s traditional first-class tournament) where I face virtually no challenge at all. I have to face different challenges [in a Test match],” he said.
Mominul also spoke on the enthusiasm for Test cricket among the younger players, stating that their dedication and passion are evident despite not translating into desired performances. He highlighted the achievements and potential of young players like Joy and Dipu, emphasizing their commitment and the importance of more Test exposure for their development.
Sri Lankan head coach Chris Silverwood praised his pace bowlers for their patience and effective delivery, attributing their success in the series to their adaptability and continuous learning. He emphasized the importance of discipline and patience, key skills that enable success across various conditions. Silverwood particularly noted Lahiru Kumara’s impactful performance, expressing optimism for his continued development and contributions to the team.