Sriram unconcerned with Tigers’ T20 failure

Bangladesh national cricket team’s newly-appointed technical consultant for T20s, Sriram Sridharan, is not worried about the team’s failure in the format and is looking forward to utilising the Tigers’ strengths in the upcoming Asia Cup.

Bangladesh have only won two out of their last eight Twenty20 Internationals, including a 2-1 series defeat to Zimbabwe.

After that, Bangladesh appointed Shakib Al Hasan as the new captain and relieved Russell Domingo of his duties for the shortest format.

Sriram, who came in to replace Domingo, said on Thursday that he is not worried about what Bangladesh have done in the format previously.

“I’m coming with no baggage. What you are saying (T20 struggles) is news to me. I’m not looking at it that way. I’m looking at it with a fresh set of eyes. I’m bringing in my ideas and fresh energy,” he said in a press conference.

The former Indian cricketer is also going to focus on Bangladesh’s strengths rather than fixing their problems straightaway.

“I was looking at this stat. Bangladesh’s average is one of the best in the world [when it comes to picking up] the first three wickets. It’s not about what they have not done well, it’s about reiterating what they are doing well and getting the best out of them. I think what we have not done well will take care of itself as long as we keep doing what we do well,” the Bangladesh technical consultant said.

He was also happy with Shakib on board as skipper.

“It’s a fantastic move to get Shakib to be captain again. It was so heartening to see his views on T20 cricket. It’s so modern, so refreshing. We are on the same page. The dynamic he has with younger players is amazing. The young players look up to him. They respect him but he’s also approachable. That’s a unique combination,” Sriram told the media.