Bangladesh and the West Indies are gearing up for the second ODI of their three-match series, with a focus on spin strategies in the upcoming match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
Following their victory in the spin-heavy first ODI, Bangladesh has called up left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed to bolster their squad, while the West Indies have enlisted left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein to join their ranks as the fourth spinner.
A win in the upcoming match would secure the ODI series for Bangladesh after facing four consecutive defeats. The pitch conditions in the series opener showcased considerable turn and bounce, prompting the possibility of Bangladesh fielding four frontline spinners, one more than the previous match.
Despite the potential spin advantage, Bangladesh’s spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed cautioned against spinners getting carried away by the excessive turn, emphasizing the importance of focusing on bowling good overs rather than just delivering good balls.
In the first match, Rishad Hossain’s exceptional six-wicket performance salvaged Bangladesh’s victory after a lackluster batting display that saw them post a modest 207 runs.
Head coach Phil Simmons and senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin dedicated time to enhancing the batters’ performance in facing the challenging Mirpur pitch, introducing innovative training methods.
Former captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who contributed with a gritty 32 in the previous match, underwent specialized training with two stumps placed strategically to refine his backfoot movement and balance while facing spin deliveries.
Players also practiced with smaller bats to improve head position and balance for making late adjustments against turning deliveries, simulating match situations closely with spinners setting field placements.
“The goal was to replicate match scenarios in training. Using smaller bats helps players stay low in gravity, ensuring the head remains close to the ball for late ball contact,” Mushtaq explained.
It remains to be seen if the tailored training will yield positive results for Bangladesh in clinching the series or if the West Indies will employ effective spin tactics to keep the series alive.