Bangladesh ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz said on Sunday (July 5) 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 in Harare ahead of the series opener. "That can happen sometimes, but still, we are trying our best. This is a new format, ODI, which is a different format. We are focused on our goal.

"If you saw the last four Test matches we did very well and the way we played in our conditions. It is a little bit challenging in these conditions and they are a very good team

in their conditions," he said. “Actually, that is gone and in Test matches (that) can happen sometimes.”

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 and I think it is great momentum for every batter and every bowler. We understand and look forward to the next match. We have to play positively all the time," he said.

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 in these conditions. 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. The fans and followers are coming and watching the match. Before we came here, we saw so many crowds coming, watching the match, and supporting each other. That was great and I hope everybody gives great support to both teams," said Mehidy.