'We're eager to perform in WC'

LIMBERING IN THE COLD FOR A SUMMER ADVENTURE: Bangladesh Test captain Mushfiqur Rahim (R) enjoys a game of soccer in biting cold at Mirpur ahead of an imminent Premier Cricket League game and more importantly for next February's World Cup Down Under. Photo: Star

When it comes to preparing for a series Bangladesh Test captain Mushfiqur Rahim always seems to be ahead of his teammates. From putting in those extra hours in the nets to crunching in some valuable time in the gym, Mushfiqur's strict regimentation has been lauded over the years.
It's an aspect that has reflected in his performance as well. He has been Bangladesh's highest run-getter this year and come next February, he will be the one batsman that the Tigers will depend upon the most in the World Cup.    
The 26-year-old however claimed to have no extra pressure on his shoulders. He is, instead, merely concentrating on the best possible way to prepare for the mega event.  
“I am watching the international matches regularly on TV. I have an idea about how the wicket can play. I have not played there for a long time. The last time I played there was for the under 19 team back in 2006.
“Many say that the pacers will get plenty of help. But I personally feel that in such a big tournament there won't be a huge amount of swing or seam. If we can work on our side shots then I think we can do well,” explained Mushfiqur.
“The batsmen will have to do majority of the work. We are working hard in the nets and with the machines. It may not help in adjusting with the wicket there, but we are trying to do the best with what we have,” he added.  
Mushfiqur had a disappointing World Cup in 2011. He had scored just 81 runs in six matches and had an average of 16.20, the lowest among the specialist batsmen in the side. Ever since then though, his batting has seen a dramatic change. In the 36 matches that Mushfiqur played from 2012 onwards, he has scored 1166 runs at an average of 37.61, the highest amongst his teammates.
The former ODI captain however, does not seem to be bothered by the statistics.
“The last three years are gone now. The new year will begin with the World Cup and my focus is on that. We have to show the others that we can play in these [Australian] conditions. The entire team is very eager and waiting to perform,” reckoned Mushfiqur.
He further believed that the two extra weeks that the Tigers would get in Brisbane prior to the World Cup would be extremely important for them.
“We may not have international matches but the Premier League is no less. Those who can do well here will get a boost ahead of the World Cup. We are also going to Brisbane early and have an opportunity to play two extra practice matches. We have to make the most of them,” said Mushfiqur.