In an unprecedented step, the visiting New Zealand cricket team avoided the press on Wednesday ahead of today’s fourth one-day international against Bangladesh.
New Zealand are under huge pressure to turn things around as they trail Bangladesh 2-0 in the five-match series. It was seen as the lowest point in their cricket history and the Black Caps appeared desperate to avoid further embarrassment.
The unexpected results in their previous two games have left them fully focused on their practice and despite repeated requests from the press none of them were ready to turn up for the customary pre-match briefing.
The practice had little hints about what they were planning for the crucial fourth match, which they cannot afford to lose anyway should they want to avoid an embarrassing series defeat against Bangladesh.
Their problems compounded after one of the regular starters Shanan Stewart injured himself while attempting to take a catch of Imrul Kayes during their seven-wicket loss in the third game.
Shanan is unlikely to play today’s match, though manager Michael Sharpe said on the website of New Zealand Cricket that his condition was improving.
‘After a night of observation from the touring doctor, John Cameron, he woke up the following morning with a sore neck and a headache. Shanan continues to recover and is doing well,’ Sharpe said.
New Zealand media hinted Kane Williamson, touted by many as an outstanding player of spin, may replace him in the line-up.
‘The tweakers have caused New Zealand’s batsmen constant headaches and Williamson could slot in at three, with stand-in gloveman BJ Watling shuffling down, or at five, where Grant Elliott is struggling,’ said a report.
Bangladesh, however, can take comfort from the fact that the 20-year-old all-rounder made only 13 runs in the four one-day internationals he played since making his debut against India in Dambulla in August.
