Ashraful admits batters' failure
The Bangladesh cricket team returned home yesterday after an expectedly dismal tour of South Africa, where they were whitewashed in the Test series but were spared a similar crashing in the one-dayers due to rain.
After the tired Tigers faced the local press briefly at the Zia International Airport lounge, captain Mohammad Ashraful admitted that their preparation to face the Proteas was not adequate.
"Our lack of experience in playing on bouncy wickets at home was the main reason behind the batsmen's overall failure in the series," told the country's premier batsman, who scored 73 and five in the two one-dayers. The third match was washed out.
A lot was expected of him but Ashraful failed to give batting solidity to the team, which suffered innings defeats in both the Tests.
"The wickets were difficult because we are not used to such tracks. Also, we just took on the Proteas after playing against New Zealand on low wickets at home. Still, I would say that the bowlers did their part well but the batsmen failed to give them support," added the Bangladesh skipper, whose contribution in the four Test innings were 1, 13, 1 and 21.
He said that they could not adopt those pitches quickly that caused their batting debacle, especially in Test matches. He also thought some decisions in the second Test went against them.
"I am happy the way we played in T20 and the ODIs because it is always tough for all teams playing in South African conditions. We tried our best to perform well and our performance was not that bad in the end. Our focus would be on the Sri Lanka series now," said Ashraful demanding bouncy wickets at home.
Abdur Razzak, who has been suspended from bowling in international cricket for suspect action, said he is looking forward to come back shortly.
"I believe it is possible for me to rectify my action. I am hopeful that even if I miss the Tests against Sri Lanka, I would be able to feature in the one-day series," said the ace Bangladesh left-arm spinner.
Bangladesh will play two Tests and three ODIs against Sri Lanka at home in December-January.
Bangladesh's Australian coach Jamie Siddons, who flew to Australia from South Africa, will join the team later.
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