Tigers enjoy first tune-up on tour

The Tigers divided into two teams and played their first intra-squad match since landing in New Zealand on February 24, enjoying a fruitful outing at the John Davies Oval in Queenstown yesterday.

Although the result was of little consequence and it showed as Nazmul XI beat Tamim XI comprehensively by nine-wickets, coach Russell Domingo will be happy to see his charges get the feel of a match after a long time.

Despite it being a warm-up game, it would certainly have provided a lot of confidence to cricketers while also getting them into the groove of in-game situations ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series.

It was a perfect outing for the Tigers as batsmen scored runs and spent time at the crease while Rubel Hossain was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets for Nazmul XI.

According to all-rounder Mehedi Hasan Miraz, who played for the winning team, the overcast conditions early on helped their seamers get purchase from the surface.

"The weather in the morning helped the bowlers as it was slightly overcast. The bowlers got some extra purchase and Rubel bhai especially bowled a very good line and length," Miraz said.

Tamim XI were without ODI skipper Tamim Iqbal, who was rested as a precaution after some slight discomfort in the thigh area, and his side were in a spot of bother early as they lost Naim Sheikh (12) and Soumya Sarkar (28).

However, Mahmudullah Riyad and Mahedi Hasan chipped in and scored thirties while Mohammad Mithun remained not out on 66 as Tamim XI posted 233 for five in 50 overs.

In reply, Nazmul and Liton Das made a flying start before retiring to give others an opportunity to bat. Najmul scored 40 while Liton added 59 before Mushfiqur Rahim and Miraz also struck fifties to chase down the total with ease.

"Everyone is feeling good after playing the match. The bowlers bowled in good areas and the batters also looked confident. I think this game proved to be really good for all of us," Miraz added.

After completing their camp in Queenstown today, the Tigers will travel to Dunedin, the venue for the first ODI in the first of the three match ODI series against New Zealand starting from March 20.