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DHAKA, April 6, 2026 (BSS)- Bangladesh are making the most of a rare extended 
preparation window ahead of their upcoming home series against New Zealand 
national cricket team, according to Cricket Operations In-Charge Shahriar 
Nafees.

The Black Caps are scheduled to arrive in Bangladesh on April 13 to play 
three One Day Internationals and an equal number of Twenty20 Internationals, 
with the hosts already deep into their training programme.

"Normally we don't get that much time to prepare ahead of any international 
series, but this time it's different. We have got an extended window, which 
is quite helpful for the players to work on their fitness, skills and other 
necessary aspects," Nafees told reporters today.

He said the training camp has been intensive and well-structured, giving 
players the opportunity to fine-tune multiple areas of their game.
"The volume and itinerary of practice have been very rich. I think players 
are strongly prepared for the New Zealand series," he added.

Despite challenging weather conditions, the players have remained committed 
throughout the sessions.

"Initially, our sessions were focused only on fitness and fielding, but now 
skill work, fitness and fielding are all being covered. The players have been 
putting in strong effort despite the heat," Nafees said.

The former Bangladesh captain also clarified the role of newly appointed spin 
bowling coach Mohammad Rafique, stating that he will work across multiple 
squads rather than being assigned to a specific squad.

"Rafique wasn't assigned to any particular team. He will work across 
different squads. He has vast experience and the BCB is keen to utilize it 
for the development of the country's spinners," he said.