Domingo backs the decision of batting first
Despite this horrible batting display, Bangladesh’s coach Russell Domingo backed the decision of batting first.
It came as a surprise when Mominul Haque, the Bangladesh Test captain, opted to bat first in Kolkata Test after winning the toss. Given the inexperience of the Bangladesh batting line up, it was expected from them to bowl first so that they can avoid being tested first up by the world-class pace-bowling attack of India.
Right after taking the field, Bangladesh lost five wickets within 38 runs, and eventually, the Tigers tumbled for just 106 in just 30.3 overs. Despite this horrible batting display, Bangladesh's coach Russell Domingo backed the decision of batting first.
"It was a terrible day for Bangladesh. We haven't come here to serve up India. I know everyone was hoping Bangladesh would bowl first so that India get 450 runs. We think the best way to try to win the match was to bat first. You will bat first 99 per cent when you come to play in the subcontinent. We have no regret for our decision to bat first," Domingo told the media in the press conference following the day's play.
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In the first Test in Indore, Mushfiqur Rahim batted at number five despite being arguably the best batsman of the team. His batting came under scrutiny due to the absence of Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan in the line-up. It was expected that Mushiqur would bat at number four to keep Bangladesh afloat. But according to Domingo, Mushfiqur loves to bat at number five to give the youngsters more chances to flourish.
"Mushy (Mushfiqur) is very happy batting at number five. It brings a little bit of more experience in the middle of the order and gives the young guys more chances to do well," Domingo added.
Along with batting failure, Bangladesh fell into big trouble as their two players of main playing XI were substituted with concussion injuries. While Liton Das was replaced by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan was substituted by Taijul Islam. Both of them were hurt by Mohammad Shami.
Domingo said Nayeem was included in the playing XI due to his ability to get more bounce than Miraz and Taijul. But the fate was written for Nayeem as he had to leave the field before showing his mettle.
"It's a very unusual situation (to field two subs). We decided to play Nayeem today as he gets more bounce than Taijul and Miraj. Unfortunately, it doesn't happen. In terms of going forward in the second innings, there is not much we can do," Domingo added.
