Batters should have won this match for us: Taskin

Pacer Taskin Ahmed did not hide his disappointment after Bangladesh slipped to a heavy 99-run defeat against Zimbabwe in the opening match of the UAE ODI Tri-Series at the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The Tigers were bundled out for 172 in 33.4 overs while chasing a target of 272, severely damaging their net run rate to -1.980 in a series that also features Afghanistan.

Taskin had initially put Bangladesh on top with a fiery opening spell, claiming three early wickets as Zimbabwe slumped to 24 for three in seven overs. However, Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine staged a remarkable recovery through a 150-run fourth-wicket partnership. Taylor scored 81 off 101 balls, while Ervine contributed 93 off 106 deliveries, laying the foundation for a challenging total.

Reflecting on the bowling effort, Taskin stated that individual milestones held no value without team success. No matter if I get three or five wickets, it is of no use if we don't win the match, the pacer noted, underlining the bowling unit's frustration.

Chasing 272, Bangladesh made a promising start as opener Tanzid Tamim smashed 46 off 38 balls. However, once Tanzid departed in the 10th over, the innings unraveled completely as the team failed to construct a single meaningful partnership.

Taskin admitted that the target was well within reach on a favorable batting surface. 270 was definitely chaseable, and we should have chased this, he remarked in the post-match press conference, adding that just one solid partnership would have sealed victory.

The pacer pointed out that a lack of game awareness and poor shot selection during the middle overs triggered a rapid collapse under pressure. We lack a bit more in game awareness, because everyone has the skill, Taskin explained, emphasizing the urgent need for consistency.

Bangladesh will now look to regroup ahead of their next fixture against Afghanistan on October 21, following Afghanistan's clash against Zimbabwe at the same venue.