[al Furqaan]

Batting average = 34.93
Bowling average = 64.26
ratio = 0.544

That ratio since Jan 1, 2010 up to this concluded series was 0.55. This series was 0.544, meaning we basically performed at exactly the same level as we have since India series in 2010. No improvement. Our batting average has gone up quite a bit, but our bowling average has dipped proportionately. We have quite a bit to go because NZ, the next weakest side, have a ratio of 0.76 since Jan 2010.

Things the BCB needs to recognize:

1) Selection and Personnel: It was both conservative and fair, if not necessarily justified in playing the likes of Junaid, SN, and Nazimuddin. Beyond our control was that an 11 month gap between performances means that much could have and did change in between. Junaid and SN are hopeless against short pitched bowling, even on the highways that were lain out in Mirpur and Khulna. Nazimuddin is an even weaker player and his scores showed that. Naeem is, right now, the best option we have although I wouldn't be against bringing Mominul in and letting them compete for a spot. Anamul should brought in sooner than immediately, and it appears as though he will get his Test try-outs in the coming ODI series. The other opener slot is wide open, and we know Imrul is not the answer. The most promising solution is Soumya Sarkar, and I know he's not ready, but the team needs come first. If he has it, he will struggle and then adapt. Even if he contributes only once in 10 innings, its better than than the alternatives who contribute never. Unless you want to fall back on Ashraful...might as well invest in the future for the same immediate payout.

2) Overall planning: Who's idea was it to produce wickets that offer nothing to spinners? Whoever it was should be fired immediately and without severance. Afraid of Narine and a debutant (Permaul)? Then you shouldn't be playing Test cricket. Its insane to bank on our pacers even against Zimbabwe's, but you have got to back your spin attack. Did making a flat road of a track help in either Test? Were ever in the match? Sure just a few batting errors flipped would have turned two losses into two draws, but what happened to going for a win?

Here's how WI's spinners fared against us:

154.3 overs, 17 maidens, 11 wickets, 596 runs, and econ rate of 3.86

Versus our spinners (who bowled to superior batsman, mind you):

225.5 overs, 30 maidens, 18 wickets, 705 runs, and an econ rate of 3.12

Their average = 54.18, ours = 39.17. Moral of the story: play to your strengths.