Asia Cup 2018: Neil McKenzie Believes Bangladesh Has Ideal Talent Pool

Of late, Bangladesh became a dangerous team in the world cricket. They enter the upcoming Asia Cup 2018 as the runner-up of the previous edition after losing out against the reigning champions India. Meanwhile, the batting coach from South Africa, Neil McKenzie is hopeful of a good tournament for Bangladesh. The recently announced the squad for the event to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The former Proteas batter maintained the Tigers had got the required goods to deliver for the team. He added that the team needs the proper planning and the application to utilise the players to the core.

Bangladesh need commitment and game plans – Neil McKenzie

The batting coach further reiterated that they had got the big hitters in the team who can make the difference. He firmly believes that Mahmudullah Riyad will be the backbone of the team if given proper training for big hitting.

McKenzie explained the various scenarios which demand a different batsman. He feels that all-rounder Mahmudullah has got the talent in him to push the bars for Bangladesh when it matters the most.

“There are some big hitters in the side. [Mahmudullah] Riyad just got 28 off 11 balls in the CPL. Technically you can become a better hitter, commit to a better position to hit. If you are chasing six an over, I am looking for ones and twos and looking for space,” McKenzie told BD cricket time.

”I am going over cover or midwicket when I am looking for a boundary or straight back past over the bowler. If I am chasing 12, I have to chase a little bit harder and go for bigger shots,” he asserted.

Neil McKenzie praises Litton Das and Tamim Iqbal:

Further, the batting coach went on to shower words of praise on the openers Tamim Iqbal and Litton Das. He mentioned their brutal assault against Windies in the recently concluded T20 series.

”I think Das played beautiful innings in the T20s. Tamim got most runs. I think getting 70 off five overs was a step in the right direction. I think it is about one of the young guys putting up their hand and showcasing what they can do. The talent is there. We have to talk about game plans, commitment and mental side of things,” he inferred.

However, it would be interesting to see whether Bangladesh live up to the expectations or not.

Meanwhile, the Neil McKenzie is pretty confident of his Bangladesh players doing well in the upcoming Asia Cup 2018. As always, time will reveal the answers.