Former Bangladesh skipper Mashrafe Mortaza on Friday urged current Bangladesh cricketers not to take any added pressure during their upcoming limited-over series against New Zealand, starting on March 20.

“We all know that New Zealand is a very difficult condition. Shakib isn’t also there so it’s going to be very difficult. But the way they talked before going to New Zealand, that was very positive,” Mashrafe said, during the final of an exhibition tournament in the capital, where he attended as the chief guest in the closing ceremony.

“I don’t think we should give them unnecessary pressures. If we make them pressure-free, I am sure they can play well. Win and loss is part of the game but I believe they will do well if we reduce the pressure,” he added. Bangladesh team is under criticism since they lost to West Indies 0-2 during their last two-match Test series at home.

Bangladesh are currently in New Zealand to play three ODIs and three Twenty20Is and they will be eyeing to win their maiden international match against the hosts in their own backyard.

Mashrafe said he has confidence in the team and is hopeful that they will do well in New Zealand. “I think the team there is capable enough to play well. But everyone counts whether you win or lose...I think we must not give them pressure,” he said.

 Mashrafe said he didn’t think yet to take part in the upcoming National Cricket League, a domestic longer-format tournament that he played long ago.

“I didn’t think yet and also didn’t take any preparations. NCL is a four-day competition so till now I don’t have a plan to take part in the early stage,” he said.