Strauss eyes Bangladesh whitewash
ENGLAND captain Andrew Strauss is targeting three wins out of three from the one-day series against Bangladesh, which starts today at Trent Bridge.
The hosts will be expected to achieve the clean sweep, having just wrapped up a one-day series victory over Australia, who represent far more daunting opponents. England also enjoyed three ODI triumphs over Bangladesh in the spring, followed by two Test successes against the Tigers earlier in the summer.
So although he was quick to remind his side against complacency, Strauss made it clear he wants to end the three-match series with a 100 per cent record.
“We’ve won four out of six one-dayers and we’re very keen to win these three,” he said.
“They’re a dangerous side, they all play shots, and Tamim Iqbal in particular is very dangerous. In Bangladesh [in March] we had to labour to win the one-day series and we’re going to have to work hard and make sure we don’t give them any inroads into the game.
“I don’t think we’re a good enough team just to turn up and win. We want to take things forward from our Australia win. There’s no room for complacency on our part.”
Batsman Ian Bell is expected to be named in the England side for his first senior limited-overs appearance since 2008. Bell, who was recalled after Kevin Pietersen was ruled out by injury, warmed up in style by hitting 158 off 143 balls as the Lions drew with India A on Tuesday.