Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto highlighted the key differences between international cricket and franchise-based tournaments like the IPL. He believes it's illogical to compare the two formats, especially regarding run-scoring.
Shanto pointed out that scoring 200+ runs is a regular occurrence in franchise leagues like the IPL and PSL, but not in international cricket. He expects scores in the upcoming World Cup to be between 160-180, and Bangladesh is preparing accordingly."In international cricket, 160, 170, 180... are average scores," Shanto said at a press conference on Sunday. "If any team scores 200 runs, it should be considered a very good score."
"I think even in last year's PSL [Pakistan Super League], scores over 200 and even in excess of 250 were scored. But from my understanding, if a team makes over 160, around 175-180 or 200, that's a very good score in international cricket. You don't see such scores too often.
"I think, we will see similar scores in the World Cup, the scores will be around 160-180 on good wickets. The bowlers will have to defend those scores or teams would have to chase it. I don't think a comparison with the IPL is logical in any way," he added.
Despite downplaying the IPL comparisons, Shanto expressed satisfaction with Bangladesh's recent 4-1 T20I series win against Zimbabwe. He believes this victory served as a valuable preparatory experience for the World Cup.
"It was a very good series," Shanto said. "When the team wins, it boosts our confidence... We have won several close matches that we needed. In the upcoming tournament, we have to face such kind of situations. The experience of winning close matches will be useful in the future."
