Mehidy eyes World Cup gains from Zimbabwe ODIs after Test setback

Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz said on Sunday they have put the humiliation of the one-off Test defeat behind them as they prepare to face Zimbabwe in the three-match ODI series, beginning in Harare on July 6.

Bangladesh suffered an innings-and-85-run defeat in the one-off Test in Harare, their first innings defeat against Zimbabwe in 25 years.

"We didn't play well in the Test match but that is in the past," Mehidy told reporters. "This is a new format, ODI, which is different. We are focused on our goal."

Mehidy added that Bangladesh view the series as an important step in their preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with Zimbabwe set to co-host the tournament alongside South Africa and Namibia.

"I think it is a great opportunity for everyone because the 2027 World Cup will be here. So, it is a great opportunity for every batter and every bowler," said Mehidy.

"We practiced the last couple of days and we did very well. As a batting unit and a bowling unit, we did a very good job here. We understand how we can play in these conditions. Everybody's preparation is excellent."

Mehidy acknowledged the challenge of facing Zimbabwe in their own backyard and stressed the importance of negotiating the new-ball spell.

"I think it is all about the momentum. Zimbabwe is always a very good team in their conditions. The first 10 to 15 overs are very important because it is challenging for all the batters. We take the responsibility for the first 10 to 12 or 15 overs," he said.

"If we get more partnerships, it will definitely be better."