'Don't be overambitious'

Former Bangladesh captain Shafiqul Huque Heera has had the opportunity, as a team manager, to keenly observe the way the current generation's players have grown. He has helped groom a number of Bangladesh's game-changers. 

And as a result many reckon that he knows, better than most, the caliber of Bangladesh's fifth World Cup team.

According to Heera, the key for Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and co is to avoid being 'over ambitious'.

“You can't be overambitious with our batting, bowling and of course in our overall expectations. I would suggest the players to enjoy their game and play natural cricket, without taking any pressure or burden.

“I know how good they can play when they are free from any extra pressure. You can not imagine a better side than what we have at this moment,” opined the former skipper.

Heera's mantra states that the Tigers should forget about the quarter finals and take every match as it comes.

 “We should go match by match. I am not in favour of beating the drum for any target and I think it's a totally wrong idea. Let them enjoy the tournament, let them play their own game and focus on their ability,” said Heera.

“We should now focus on our first game against Afghanistan. Only if we can win this match should we think about how we should play against the mighty Australians. If we lose the match against Australia, I won't mind, but we must assure that we do not lose badly. An impressive performance against Australia will definitely help us to turn the table against Sri Lanka in our third game,” he reckoned.

The former national skipper was however a bit worried about the lack of match- practice before the World Cup.

“The preparation has not been ideal for such a big tournament. It is fine that they are now in Brisbane to adapt with the conditions, but I feel the lack of match- practice can be an issue. Match-practice is more important than practising in the nets,” opined Heera.

Heera however, believed that the BCB had sent their best possible team.

“I firmly believe the best possible team is now in Australia to represent 16 crore people in the biggest cricket tournament on earth. You can not imagine a better side than what we have at this moment.

“If we get a hundred percent fit Tamim Iqbal then our batting will be good. We have a very balanced bowling attack and a man like Heath Streak is there to guide the pace department. This team has got the ability to sparkle while fielding, so we can be hopeful,” he concluded.