Smaller contributions important too, says Tamim

Following a comprehensive victory in the first ODI against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh skipper Tamim Iqbal expressed his enthusiasm about the obvious positives from the game and put forward an emphasis on the culture of appreciating the minor contributions.

"I was delighted with the way we bowled! And on the batting front, in my opinion, yesterday was a perfect game to play with additional responsibility and Liton did it brilliantly. However, like how I've often mentioned before, that it's easier to talk about and celebrate the fifties and hundreds but I think it's equally important to give importance to smaller contributions as well and I try to do that myself," Tamim said in a video message ahead of tomorrow's second ODI.

The leading run scorer for the Tigers in ODIs could not help but shower praises on the performance of the youngsters.

"No doubt, at a certain stage of the match, we were in trouble, but this was a perfect platform for the younger members to perform at their expected best. Time and again, we keep discussing how the young guns need to step up.

"Afif's innings was vital for us to reach the score that we did. Likewise, Miraz's innings of 20-odd runs ensured that we didn't have to settle for a below-par 230-240 score, especially given that the two set batsmen -- Liton and Mahmudullah -- got out at important phases of the game," said a seemingly content Tamim.

When asked about the problem areas that need to be addressed, Tamim mentioned the top-order.

"Obviously there is no upper limit to improvement but the least we can do is not lose a few early wickets in succession. Someone like me or Shakib from the top-order, we'd look to play the bigger innings so that the team doesn't have to face this kind of adverse situation. So, hopefully we'd make the best use of any opportunity that comes in the next matches."

The skipper ended by giving an update on the injury front. 

"As far as the state of injuries is concerned, I have decided to play these three matches with a bit of risk and I am managing it somehow. And Liton, from what I know, is healing well and should be available for tomorrow. However, Mustafiz still has question marks regarding his recovery and today we should be able to assess his condition better but right now it's 50-50," Tamim said.