National Team Batsmen Boost Fitness and Mental Preparation Ahead of Asia Cup

National team wicketkeeper-batsman Zaker Ali Onik has shared that during the Asia Cup Under-23 preparatory camp, players are undergoing a new type of training combined with intense mental stimulation. Ireland coach Julian Wood is teaching the team new power-hitting strategies. Zaker stated that Wood is not making major technical changes but is helping each batter find their strengths and playing style according to their individual approach.

According to Zaker, some batsmen have a swing style similar to baseball, while others play like in golf, so separate strategies are being applied for each. Alongside practice, professional fitness is also a priority. Since national team fitness coach Nathan Kelly took over, players have become accustomed to daily pressures and fatigue through discipline, regular practice, and intensive training.

This camp includes body trackers for all players, and performance reports are being submitted daily. Zaker mentioned, “It’s not about who finishes first, but how much effort each player puts in—that’s what matters to the coach.”

Regarding slog overs batting, Zaker noted that sometimes opportunities come, sometimes they don’t. Success comes through consistent practice and a courageous mindset. Work has been ongoing to strengthen middle-over batting. He explained, “We always focus on middle-over batting—how to maintain a good run rate without losing wickets.”

Zaker also emphasized the importance of mental preparation. Cricket is not just a physical game; mental toughness is a major weapon for players. The BCB has contracted psychologist David Scott for the Asia Cup, although his joining date for the camp has not been finalized.

Focusing on a personal goal is secondary, Zaker said, as the only aim for Bangladesh in the Asia Cup is to become champions. He added, “Everyone in the dressing room is preparing with belief and enthusiasm to be champions. Everyone is working hard, and we believe we will win this time.”

Zaker views international cricket as a daily challenge. Playing in all three formats brings both a dream and a physically demanding struggle. According to him, success is impossible without physical fitness—something he repeatedly emphasizes.