Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Bin Mortaza has credited the Sri Lankan coach Chandika Hathurusingha with their consistent run in the World Cup.
Published : 23 Mar 2015, 12:09 AM
When Bangladesh Cricket Board announced his appointment as head coach last year, Bangladesh were going through tough times.
After the team went through a series of overhauls, including appointment of separate captains for different formats, the scenario changed from the Zimbabwe tour.
After scoring a century against England in the pool stage of the World Cup, Mahmudullah had said the Tigers owe it to Hathurusingha for their positive approach.
No matter the situation of the game, the coach had granted them freedom to play their natural game.
Mashrafe, too, said on the team’s return to the country on Sunday that they required that bit of freedom to retrieve their confidence.
“The coach has given us the freedom. It was crucial. Sometimes you will see, we become very cautious after losing two wickets.
“But (this time) every one of our batsman played their natural game after getting in. In bowling, (they) attacked even after conceding 10-12 runs in an over.”
“We slowly gained confidence… the freedom increased our confidence.”
Bangladesh had been preparing for the showcase event one and a half months ahead of it.
The coach prepared his team with innovative practices.
“I thank the coach on behalf of the team. He made us do exclusive practices. The important thing is everyone received it (well).”