‘Loss of Shakib made it a bigger challenge’

Bangladesh ODI captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza reiterated that the New Zealand tour will be a bigger challenge now following the loss of ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan through injury.

Bangladesh were unable to win any of their matches in New Zealand last time around and without Shakib's inspiration the task will be much harder. "Shakib's importance can't be overstated. Whenever we have been without Shakib we have had difficult experiences. It was already a big challenge. The loss of Shakib made it a bigger challenge," Mashrafe told reporters before leaving for New Zealand on Sunday.

However, the ace all-rounder had been on the sidelines for a big chunk of time last year through injuries. Tigers had to cope and they did well, making the final of the Nidahas Trophy -- Shakib playing just two games in the tournament, and the final of the Asia Cup.

"We had to take up this challenge in the Asia Cup tournament as well. We have to play with a positive mindset. At the same time, without Shakib, we are short in two areas. So, we have to prepare mentally and prepare accordingly.

He was optimistic about Tigers' chances in New Zealand, saying it was 'difficult but possible' to win the series. There have been some positive performances from the players in the just concluded Bangladesh Premier League, with Tamim Iqbal playing an otherworldly innings in the final. Mash believes that the wickets will have some similarities with the pitches in Dhaka.

The kind of wicket we got in the BPL semi-final and final -- I think the wicket (in New Zealand) will be similar and flat," Mashrafe said.

"It's a relief for us that the batsmen returned to form. The challenge is now for the bowlers," he concluded.