[CRK]

Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has issued a clear message ahead of the upcoming ODI series: do not mistake New Zealand’s reshuffled squad for a weak one. Despite the absence of several senior players, Miraz is adamant that his team will treat the three-match contest with the utmost seriousness.

“We Cannot See New Zealand as a Weak Side”

“We cannot see New Zealand as a weak side,” Miraz stated on the eve of the series opener. “We will try our hardest to get the result in our favour. For professional cricketers, every game is important; the chance to earn ranking points also gives it a little more importance. Winning the series against New Zealand would be a big achievement for us. I think the Bangladesh team is in good shape. The last two series wins also showed that we are bonding well as a team.”

The comments come at a pivotal moment in Miraz’s leadership journey. Having led Bangladesh to two consecutive ODI series victories, questions remain about his long-term captaincy credentials. This series offers another opportunity to solidify his standing at the helm.

Latham’s Call: Trust Your Game

On the other side, New Zealand skipper Tom Latham is equally focused, viewing this series as a chance for his younger players to prove themselves. Latham, who is also fighting to reclaim a consistent spot in the middle order, emphasized simplicity and self-belief.

“The goal for us is for everyone to bring their own skill. We have a blueprint and a style that we like to play with, but we want guys to come in and play the way that they’ve played for their domestic sides back home in New Zealand. We know if they do that, then they’ll give themselves the best opportunity.”

Latham clarified that while the squad may lack experience in terms of caps, it is far from a rookie lineup. “Everyone across the whole squad has played for New Zealand at some point, so they know what international cricket is about,” he said. “We want them to come in, back themselves, and play the way they want to play.”

Respect for Bangladesh’s Bowling Attack

Latham acknowledged Bangladesh’s balanced bowling strength, particularly their proven pace attack. “Taskin [Ahmed], Mustafizur [Rahman], and Rana have shown they can be lethal, especially in home conditions,” he noted. But he also stressed preparedness for spin, which could play a decisive role.

“Looking at the surface, it looks like a good surface, but we know spin plays a part in these conditions as well. Bangladesh are playing great cricket at the moment, so we’re going to be challenged,” Latham added.

Miraz: Adaptability is Key

Miraz echoed the importance of adaptability, particularly in batting. With pitches expected to offer variable assistance, he stressed the need for composure. “We are hopeful of playing this series on good pitches, like we did against Pakistan,” he said. “You also have to bear in mind that both Pakistan and us were bowled out cheaply at least once in that series. I think it is more important how the players manage themselves on any type of wicket.”

• Bangladesh aims to continue winning momentum
• New Zealand seeks to integrate emerging talent
• Series carries crucial ICC ODI ranking points
• Spin and seam both expected to influence outcomes

As both captains prepare their squads for a battle of strategy, temperament, and execution, fans can expect a fiercely contested series that goes beyond mere formality. For Bangladesh, it’s about proving consistency. For New Zealand, it’s about building the future.

One thing is certain — no team is taking the other lightly.