Coach Hathurusingha urges Bangladesh to win all matches against Afghanistan

Bangladesh coach Chandika Hathurusingha wants a clean sweep against the touring Afghanistan team.

With Bangladesh closing on their first ODI series since November last year, the coach believes the first hour on the field will be crucial for his disciples.

The first game of three-match series will begin at 2:30pm local time at Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium where all the three matches will take place.

The Tigers' Sri Lankan mentor wants them to work through the opening moments and set the tone of the series.

"The main focus is to win three ODIs against another national team. As you said, not playing for a long time, is a bit of an Achilles' heel for us. That is what we are trying to get over, that uncertainty," Hathurusingha said on Saturday.

"The first match is very vital for us. The first hour is vital for us. It is important that we start well, so the focus is all about winning the first game.”

"We have no concern over any skill part – batting, bowling or fielding. It is all about the mental aspect of the game – getting into the game, playing in front of a crowd for your country."

The last international fixture for Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and his men was in the World Twenty20 in March this year.