A tactical approach for playing T20 cricket

It is evident that the Tigers have not yet understood the strategy of playing T20 cricket. It is not just about slogging every ball whether it is playable or not, it is all about playing proper cricketing shots, building an innings, running fast to take singles, 2 or even 3 runs whenever possible instead of standing in one place to hit a boundary or a six. The secret of T20 is to retain as many wickets as possible right up to the 15th over and then launching an attack during the last 5 overs. Many batsmen make the mistake of hitting big shots during the power play of the first 6 overs. They must realise that during this time, the pitch is new and that's the time to get used to the wicket. I personally don't believe it is a good time to start slogging the ball until and unless the batsmen become used to the playing conditions.

As far as bowling is concerned, the sole reason for losing the 2nd T20 match against Zimbabwe was the 'no-ball' from Mustafizur which was the turning point of the match. No-balls and wides can be extremely expensive and bowlers cannot afford to bowl these extras during a 20 over match. The last 5 overs must be bowled by pacers only. It was a mistake to let Nasir bowl the last over. The last over should have been bowled by Mustafizur. Nasir should use his abilities and bowl a mixture of both spin and pace during his over to confuse the batsman. I believe this way he will get more wickets.

Aminur Rahim
New DOHS, Mohakhali
Dhaka