“If we prepare intelligently enough or specifically enough, we will go far”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha has revealed that he will be “happy” if the national team can advance to the second round of the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

However, the one major problem Bangladesh faces ahead of the World Cup is the fact that they have only played 20 international matches in Australia and New Zealand, the last of which came in January 2010. This will be a huge concern for them as they will not be accustomed to the conditions in both countries.

“The main thing is we get the right combination and be prepared to play in Australia and New Zealand,” Hathurusingha said. “It is going to be a challenge for sub-continent teams with the conditions. So if we prepare intelligently enough or specifically enough, we will go far. I am happy to be in the second round, that’s my first goal.

“The plan for us is to build on what we have. I haven’t spoken to the team yet. I haven’t seen them playing for last four years because we hardly get to see them in Australia. I know the capabilities of some of the players when I was with Sri Lanka before 2010. Some of the players are coming into their peak.”

However, before Bangladesh can start worrying about the World Cup, they will have their eyes set on the upcoming ODI series against India.

“As long as we improve as a team and if we train properly and keep the right environment for players to develop as individuals as well as players, I think the results will take care of themselves,” Hathurusingha said. “My job is to get that environment and resources, and for everyone in the office and involved with the team to work at the best of their ability so that the team gets the best support.

“If we do that, as I have seen with the Sri Lanka team and in my last four years in Australia, teams do well most of the time when the best system is in place. That’s what I am focusing on.”