Lack of practice matches contributed to batting struggles in Zimbabwe: Ashraful

Photo: Collected

Bangladesh batting coach Mohammad Ashraful has attributed the team's disappointing batting performances during the Zimbabwe tour partly to the lack of practice matches before the international fixtures.

Bangladesh suffered an innings defeat in the one-off Test before losing the subsequent ODI series, with their batting remaining a major concern throughout the tour.

Ashraful said the growing number of franchise tournaments has reduced opportunities for teams to play practice matches ahead of international assignments, making it harder for players to adapt quickly to unfamiliar conditions.

“Due to franchise tournaments, practice matches are not held before international fixtures. Previously, it was easier to adjust through a three-day or one-day match, but that option is no longer available. Now, you go and play right away,” he said after the team returned home.

He noted that both the Test and ODI squads had arrived in Zimbabwe early but were unable to play any practice matches.

“If we had played practice matches, I believe the result would have been in our favour,” Ashraful said.

Despite the tour's disappointing outcome, Ashraful believes the experience will help Bangladesh prepare for their upcoming Test series in Australia.

“We didn’t do well in the Test, but in the third ODI, we adjusted. I feel that in the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, we will be able to prepare that way with more time and practice matches. This tour was also important for the Australia series,” he said.

Ashraful acknowledged that the Australia tour would be challenging but expressed optimism that Bangladesh's early arrival would provide valuable preparation.

“It will be tough in Australia. The positive thing is that we will travel there 10-12 days early and have the opportunity to play a three-day practice match. Hopefully, if all our players are fit, we will be able to do well there,” he added.