Lockie Ferguson Opens Up On Facing Bangladesh, Says "This Is A Big Series For Us And A Very Challenging One"

While New Zealand will start the upcoming three-match series against Bangladesh as slight favourites, their stand-in captain Lockie Ferguson is well aware of the threat posed by the hosts. Before taking part in the World Cup next month, New Zealand and Bangladesh will finetune their preparations by locking horns against each other.

It will be New Zealand’s first series in Bangladesh in 10 years. They had last visited the country way back in 2013 for two Tests, three ODIs, and one T20I. On that occasion, Bangladesh had stunned the cricketing world by inflicting a humiliating whitewash on New Zealand in the ODIs. And while the Black Caps are expected to do better in the upcoming series, Lockie Ferguson has admitted that playing Bangladesh in their own backyard is a huge challenge.

“This is a big series for us and a very challenging one. So, from our point of view, it’s good build-up for a World Cup; but at the same time, you know, we’re very much focused on this series,” said Lockie Ferguson as quoted by Cricbuzz.

“We know how strong Bangladesh are in their home conditions, so it’s a good challenge for us against them. And it’s my first time playing here, so certainly plenty to learn on my behalf. But the boys are really looking forward to tomorrow and getting underway,” he added.

Lockie Ferguson on leading New Zealand:

The upcoming series will be a very special one for Lockie Ferguson. The fast-bowler will be leading his national team for the very first time in his career. New Zealand have made a number of changes to the team that recently played in the four-match ODI series against England.

“Obviously a huge honour for myself to be captain and obviously just in an interim sort of position while our other three captains are away but obviously very privileged to be in this role,” said Lockie Ferguson.

Meanwhile, New Zealand have picked only five World Cup-bound players for the upcoming series against Bangladesh. Apart from Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult, Rachin Ravindra, Ish Sodhi, and Will Young are the World Cup-bound players who will take part in the series.

Bangladesh vs New Zealand 2023 schedule:

1st ODI: 21 September, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur
2nd ODI: 23 September, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur
3rd ODI: 26 September, Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium, Mirpur
1st Test: 28 November to 2 December, TBC
2nd Test: 6 to 10 December, TBC