Tigers test negative for Covid-19, to begin training

The Bangladesh national team underwent their third coronavirus test in New Zealand today and have tested negative. The Tigers will therefore be able to use gym facilities and also practice in small groups for the rest of their 14-day quarantine period in New Zealand.

There is an air of relief in the Bangladesh camp as the first seven days of the quarantine period was a tough one with the players having to strictly adhere to protocols set by the New Zealand government. The third coronavirus took place today, on the seventh day of their quarantine and batsman Mohammad Mithun said he was excited to be able to practice again.

"For the past few days there was a lot of restriction on our movement but things are getting back to normal slowly. We have gotten the option to start gym today after a week.

"We are excited since staying inside the house is difficult and there is not much to do here when one is stuck inside the house. We have come to play a series and that we will not be stuck at home and be able to start practicing from tomorrow, gives us a good vibe," Mithun said.

Bangladesh have not been able to win any matches in New Zealand soil. Countering the new ball or the pace and bounce on offer in the Kiwi pitches is always a tough prospect for the Tigers. New Zealand won the ODI series and Test series by 3-0 and 2-0 margins the last time that Tigers toured the country. Mithun believes that being able to cope with the new ball can bring positive results.

"The conditions are challenging and we don't get to play in these kinds of conditions a lot. The new ball is very challenging in New Zealand. If we can survive the new ball, then the result will be a lot more positive than last time," Mithun opined.

After completing the mandatory 14-day quarantine period, the visitors will be allowed to mix with locals and roam freely around the country. The tourists are also expected to undergo a five-day training camp in Queenstown following 14-day quarantine.