Chattogram, Dec 1 (NationPress) Ireland's head coach Heinrich Malan shared insights into the team's performance against Bangladesh during the ongoing T20I series, highlighting the notable advancements the players have made even with limited cricket recently. As they approach the crucial third T20I against Bangladesh, Ireland enters with a boost of confidence following an impressive start in Chattogram and a close loss in the second match.

The visiting team kicked off with a commanding 39-run victory before Bangladesh made a comeback in a nail-biting finish, leveling the series and setting the stage for a tense finale where both teams fine-tune their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026.

Malan expressed that the fluctuating nature of this series has been pivotal for the team’s long-term strategy. Ahead of the match, he stated, “At the beginning of this series, we recognized it as part of our T20 World Cup preparations. While we may not have had the desired amount of cricket this year, those days are behind us. We are now focused on our current position.”

“We’ve showcased substantial progress over the last two matches. There were numerous aspects we executed excellently, although there are always areas we aim to enhance,” he added.

Malan underscored the clarity in Ireland’s approach across the initial matches, mentioning that the team has adopted a more dynamic style of T20 cricket in line with its rapid evolution.

“In the first two matches, we've really demonstrated the thought clarity we've integrated into our game plan. The T20 format has transformed significantly over time, and we've recognized the need to empower our players to express themselves freely - which has been evident in our recent performances. We have a valuable opportunity for training today to refine that aspect and then take the field tomorrow to build on our earlier performances,” he remarked.

With the World Cup commencing on February 7 of next year, Ireland aspires that their increasing determination and confidence will carry through the tournament, where they find themselves in Group B with Australia, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, and Oman. Their opening match is against Sri Lanka in Colombo on February 8.

As the series finale approaches, Ireland sees it as both an opportunity for a bold win and a chance to establish the fearless identity they wish to project on the global stage.