Nafees Targets ODI Series Win For Bangladesh

Nafees Targets ODI Series Win For Bangladesh

Shahriar Nafees made a half-century during the Test but he wants his side ot put in an improved performance in the three-match ODI series

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Bangladesh batsman Shahriar Nafees believes that his side can put behind them their disappointing 130-run defeat in the Test match against Zimbabwe and win the One-Day International series.

With the team now fully focussed on the upcoming three-match series, that begins on 12th August in Harare, Nafees is looking for a stronger all-rounder performance.

Speaking to the ICC Cricket World Radio show, he said: "Zimbabwe should be congratulated on beating us. They were better all-round and well prepared. I don’t think we were complacent but they played better cricket over the five days.

"I think our fast bowlers did a pretty good job in the Test and a few of the batsmen showed they’re in good touch. Losing the Test was a wake-up call for us so it’s about turning it around and winning the (ODI) series.

"I think it is going to be a tough ODI series but it is a series we can win. Zimbabwe will challenge us but I believe we will win, not comfortably but convincingly.

"Player to watch in the series will be is Abdul Razzak who has been a great cricketer for Bangladesh since he started playing for us. I think he’ll be a key part in this series  even if the conditions aren’t the same as Bangladesh," he added.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe's chief selector Alastair Campbell spokeof his pride in seeing his side compete in Test cricket once again following a lengthy absence.

"I’m very proud. It’s been a long haul to be out the Test arena for six years. We set a goal when I came on board two years ago that we would be back playing in two years and we have managed it.

"We had to create a comprehensive first-class system, a better administration system, the grounds, the facilities. We had to get all our ducks in a row before we got back to playing Test match cricket – it’s been a long process but I’m delighted everything is falling into place. We’ve obviously got Bangladesh now and then Pakistan and Australia so an exciting summer ahead," he said.

The other two ODIs will also be played in Harare, on 14th and 16th August.

© Cricket World 2011