Tigers undeterred in preparations despite uncertainty

The discussion surrounding Bangladesh's venue for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup has become the hottest topic among the country's cricket fraternity. From tea stalls to cricket fields, speculation dominates as the International Cricket Council (ICC) is yet to announce its verdict following the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) request to relocate their World Cup matches from India.

Cricketers -- the game's biggest stakeholders -- are closely monitoring developments while continuing preparations. Most of Bangladesh's top players are currently in Sylhet for the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20, receiving updates amid uncertainty, heightened after Indian Premier League's (IPL) Kolkata Knight Riders released Mustafizur Rahman from their squad.

Mohammad Saifuddin and Tanzim Hasan Sakib, both named in Bangladesh's 15-member squad for the marquee tournament beginning on February 7, appeared well aware of the situation and indicated they would have no issue travelling to Sri Lanka should the venue be shifted.

Saifuddin, who is representing Dhaka Capitals in the BPL, said venue uncertainty has not distracted the players. "I don't know what will happen because it is not in our control," he said, adding that the team were "always prepared to play at any venue". He noted that having recently played a full series in Sri Lanka, adjustment would be easier whether matches are held there or in India.

Tanzim, currently playing for Rajshahi Warriors, echoed similar views, believing a move to Sri Lanka would not significantly impact preparation. "There isn't a significant difference between the wickets in India and Sri Lanka, apart from Premadasa," Tanzim said, pointing out that most Sri Lankan venues tend to offer flat tracks.

He added that workload management remains structured, with regular communication from pace bowling coach Shaun Tait and the team's trainer. "Our bowling workload is being managed well," he further informed, explaining that players are receiving clear instructions and personalised programmes.

Asked about possible "politics" surrounding the IPL and player retention, Tanzim said the reasons behind Mustafizur's release remain unclear. "This can be a political issue, but politics shouldn't come into cricket," he said, adding that he would consult his agent and relevant officials before submitting his name next year.

Both players, however, agreed that the ongoing BPL has not yet offered ideal preparation conditions. With repeated use of the same wickets and venues, and uneven team combinations across franchises, competitive balance has suffered.

"We actually want better sporting wickets," Saifuddin said, stressing that ICC tournaments demand batting-friendly surfaces.

Tanzim also highlighted how the toss has played an outsized role in several matches. Citing Chattogram's early advantage due to their spinners, he expressed hope for fresher wickets. While acknowledging that 180–190-run surfaces can be challenging, he felt such conditions would better prepare players for upcoming international and ICC events.

On competitiveness, Tanzim was candid about the BPL's limitations. "Only two or three teams [out of six] are consistently providing that," he said. Still, he felt matches against stronger teams were offering the preparation Bangladesh need ahead of the World Cup.