‘Expectations are natural’

Bangladesh U-19 team left for Zimbabwe early Monday to take part in the 16th ICC U-19 World Cup, scheduled from January 15 to February 6 in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Having played extensive youth international cricket at home and abroad over the past two years, the side head into the tournament as one of the contenders. Captain Azizul Hakim Tamim spoke to The Daily Star's Samsul Arefin Khan about preparation, expectations and challenges ahead of departure. The excerpts are as follows:

The Daily Star (DS): With the World Cup approaching, how would you assess the team's overall preparation?

Azizul Hakim Tamim (AHT): We are well prepared in every aspect. We have played over 30 matches and are fit both physically and mentally… Now it is about execution on the field.

DS: What do you see as this team's biggest strength?

AHT: It is not just one thing. At this level, we chased 284 in the Asia Cup. Our bowling has always been good, and now our batting is also very strong.

DS: After winning the 2024 Asia Cup and following it up with several successful series, but missing the final in the last Asia Cup, do you believe the selected 15 players are the best available?

AHT: We won every series we played, Alhamdulillah, except for the last Asia Cup where we lost only one match against Pakistan. Everyone is fit now.

DS: You had a great start in the National Cricket League for the Mymensingh Division. Several players in this squad have exposure to senior domestic cricket, which is rare at this level.

AHT: Domestic cricket gives us valuable experience. Playing alongside national and foreign players helps a lot… and that experience will be very useful in the World Cup.

DS: Conditions in Zimbabwe are often compared to Bangladesh. How familiar are you with them?

AHT: We have played in similar conditions before, so we have a good idea about the wickets, weather and grounds.

DS: Since Bangladesh won the U-19 World Cup in 2020, expectations have been high. Do you see that as pressure?

AHT: Winning the 2020 World Cup is part of Bangladesh cricket's history. Expectations from the people are natural, and it is good that they expect from us. We will try our best to live up to that.

DS: You are grouped with India and New Zealand, with India first up. How important is the opening match?

AHT: Every match is important because the World Cup quickly becomes like a knockout stage.

DS: Does the rivalry with India add extra motivation?

AHT: It is not just about India. Against big teams, there will be sledging. We have to play not just with our heads, but with body language.

DS: This squad has many all-rounders. How much of an advantage does that give you as captain?

AHT: It is a big advantage… When everyone contributes, it creates a strong impact.

DS: You have previously said the team's biggest strength is collective unity rather than individuals. Could that be key to success in this World Cup?

AHT: Yes, definitely. We have played together since U-15 and U-17, which has created a strong bond. The combination among the players is very good, and the senior players are very supportive.