Kiwis ready for ‘a different Bangladesh’

New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel admitted that they will be welcomed by a 'different Bangladesh' in their upcoming tour of the country for a five-match T20I series, starting from September 1, and the left-arm spinner mentioned the Kiwis are ready to take on the challenge.

"Obviously we know that the sub-continent can be quite challenging for teams like New Zealand and Australia. So, we know we are up against a different opposition in their home country, that is totally a different prospect," said Ajaz before leaving New Zealand for Dhaka today.

The inexperienced Kiwis, who do not have a single player from their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup later this year, are due to land in Dhaka tomorrow for the upcoming series.

Bangladesh strangled Australia in their spin web in a slow, low and gripping Mirpur pitch to register a thumping 4-1 victory in their previous T20I series at home. It was also the Tigers' first-ever bilateral series win against the Aussies in any format.

Ajaz acknowledged the spin threat that looms and realised their need for adapting to the changed conditions as quickly as possible.  

"We know how strong our rival bowlers are when it comes to spinning wickets. They are a lot stronger at home and they do play cricket differently in those conditions. So, I guess for us it's about adaptability and being able to adapt our game and change our game as quickly as possible," added Ajaz.

New Zealand's spin department for the tour comprises of two uncapped players in off-spinner Cole McConchie and left-arm spinner Rachin Ravindra alongside Ajaz, who played just two T20Is so far.

But Ajaz thinks the conditions in Bangladesh could be the ideal opportunity for inexperienced spinners like them to thrive.

"As a spinner I think you need to strive for the opportunities like these. You take a little more responsibility in conditions like that. So, I'm really looking forward for the opportunity and prospect to play some white ball cricket," Ajaz concluded.