'We couldn't find our rhythm, struggled to launch an effective attack' - Mehidy Hasan on Bangladesh's recent defeat to Afghanistan

Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan openly expressed his thoughts on the daunting task of chasing down a massive target that was set by Afghanistan in the second game of their three-match ODI series. Mehidy candidly admitted that the score of 331 runs proved too big for his team to overcome, acknowledging the challenge they faced.

Afghan team showcased their dominance in the format where Bangladesh typically excel, establishing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. With exceptional performances from Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who scored a sensational 145, and Ibrahim Zadran, who contributed with a century as well, Afghanistan posted an imposing total of 331/9. In response, Bangladesh faltered and eventually succumbed to a total of 189 runs in 43.2 overs.

"331 runs was a bit too much. We couldn't find our rhythm with the ball early on and struggled to launch an effective attack," Mehidy was as quoted as saying by Cricbuzz, while reflecting on the defeat.

He emphasized the importance of a solid start from the top order and the need for substantial partnerships to sustain the team's hopes. However, as those expectations were not met, the match grew increasingly difficult for Bangladesh. Mehidy believed that the team conceded an additional 30 to 40 runs, which would have made a significant difference had they been restricted, potentially limiting the opposition to a target of 280 or 290 runs.

"Since that didn't happen the match became difficult for us. We gave away 30 to 40 runs in excess. It would have been different had we kept them to 280 or 290," he added.

The mistakes we made will allow us to become more alert: Hasan

Nevertheless, Mehidy swiftly defended the overall reputation of Bangladesh's ODI side, underscoring that a single series defeat does not undermine their strength as a team. Highlighting their past achievements, including their qualification for the World Cup, he expressed unwavering confidence in the team's capabilities and optimism for the upcoming Asia Cup and World Cup matches against Afghanistan. Mehidy acknowledged the mistakes made in recent matches and viewed them as valuable opportunities for improvement and increased vigilance.

"The lacking that we had in these two matches and the mistakes we made will allow us to become more alert since we have big series ahead of us. We have Asia Cup and World Cup games against them and I hope we would be able to overcome our errors," he stated.

On July 11, Bangladesh are set to face Afghanistan in the final game of the series at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, followed by a two-match T20I series in Sylhet. The team remains determined to learn from their mistakes, make the necessary improvements, and stage a strong comeback in the upcoming matches. The defeat has served as a wake-up call, and Bangladesh aim to emerge stronger and more resilient in their future endeavors.