Nidahas Trophy 2018: Momentum is crucial in the shorter format says Mushfiqur Rahim

In a high-scoring and thrilling encounter against Sri Lanka, Bangladesh stunned everyone by chasing a target in excess 200. Fueled by a brilliant knock by former skipper Musfiqur Rahim, the Bangla Tigers chased down 215 with ease. With this victory, they also ended their long losing streak in the shortest format. Going further into the tournament, the Bangladesh team is eyeing to continue the good run and has set its eyes on the Nidahas Trophy.

Furthermore, this is also the fourth highest successful chase in T20Is. Rahim, who scored an unbeaten half-century in that game doesn’t want to get over complacent after the victory. With their hopes to reach the finals still alive, Rahim wants to carry the momentum going forward into the tournament.

‘Need to make it count’: Mushfiqur Rahim

It seemed impossible for Bangladesh to chase the target down half-way through the match. However, Tamim Iqbal and Liton Das provided them the platforms provided the platform at the top of the steep chase. They added 74 for the opening wicket before Mushfiqur Rahim entered and changed the course of the game by anchoring the chase. Mushfiqur acknowledged how badly they needed that win. He also conceded it was high time they moved forward carrying that momentum that he believed was crucial in the shortest format.

“In this short format momentum is crucial. I hope we can carry on with it in our next two matches as we have got confidence back,” he said. Further, he made a point that they shouldn’t get carried away with this victory. “I don’t like a lot of noise [appreciation and lofty talks] after just one win. The wicket was good to bat and someone will be able to play such a knock. When you are playing for 13 years it is natural that you will make an improvement. I just want to return what cricket has given me with my performance,” he added.

Mushfiqur also accepted the fact that their bowlers didn’t live up to the expectations in the Bangladesh game. He said it is important to bowl well against India if they are to make any mark in the tournament. “We have to bowl well against India. They are a strong side but if we can bowl well we can surely count on our chances against them,” he concluded.