Sriram open to changes in Bangladesh's T20 World Cup squad
Bangladesh technical director Sridharan Sriram wants to be flexible with his options at the top of the order having still not zeroed in on an opening pair ahead of the T20 World Cup.
The Tigers opted for four different combinations at one and two in the recent tri-series in New Zealand. Sriram said that there was clarity in the setup despite the constant tinkering with the opening slots in the shortest format in recent years.
"I think we are very clear about the best team we want to play so the captain, myself and the director are all on the same page.”
“We're quite clear as to what combinations we want. I think we have got two-three combinations in mind and given the conditions we face on the day we might modify and adapt accordingly."
The former India all-rounder also indicated that Bangladesh will continue to tinker with personnel at the top of the order during the T20 World Cup too, depending on the opposition and conditions on the day. Bangladesh ended the New Zealand tri-series winless but Sriram was optimistic about his team hitting form during the World Cup.
"You look at it as experiments but we look at it as different combinations. You learn about your players when you put them in different situations and learn how each of them responds. I think we have learned quite a bit. We're very clear about the combinations we go with against different teams," he said.
"It's not about one slot (opening) I think for Bangladesh to win the game, everything has to come together. It's not only about the opening slot or just about the pace bowlers. It's about the entire team."
Possible changes to the T20 World Cup squad?
Soumya Sarkar and Shoriful Islam have given Bangladesh a good selection headache and remain in the fray for a spot in the side travelling to Australia. Bangladesh pace bowling coach had recently hinted at making possible changes to the squad before the cut-off date and Sriram reiterated the same.
"He (Soumya) played a shot and got out. That's intent," he said. "I think he was selfless and played for the team. He tried to get going in the first few overs when we got only six or seven runs. He tried to force the pace and got out but it happens.".
"He played a good knock at number three in the last game so I think there are good signs. A player like him, we need to really instil the confidence. We still have time (to bring changes in the World Cup squad). There will definitely be discussions and we're open."
Bangladesh will face South Africa in their group-stage opener in the World Cup before meeting Asian heavyweights India and Pakistan.