New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori insists Bangladesh still pose a serious threat in the upcoming one day and Test series, despite losing 14 key players.
Former captain Habibur Bashar was one of 13 players recently banned from playing for his country for 10 years after joining the unofficial Indian Cricket League.
The latest recognised player made unavailable for selection is wicket-keeper Khaled Mashud after he announced his retirement from international cricket last month.
However, Vettori, whose New Zealand side play three one-day internationals and two Tests in the sub-continent, still believes Bangladesh are a serious threat.
"We have come here expecting to win," Vettori said.
"We are not underestimating Bangladesh, we know how good they can be. If we are not on top of our game we can get upset and that's the thing we are trying to avoid."
Home advantage
Bangladesh have won only one of their previous 53 tests since making their debut in 2000.
The two teams last met in New Zealand in December-January, where the hosts won all three ODIs and two tests.
New Zealand have yet to taste defeat to Bangladesh in 11 ODIs and six tests.
And Vettori said Bangladesh would enjoy home advantage and that New Zealand had to beware their formidable bowling attack.
"Look at their bowling attack; they have (Shahadat) Hossain, (Mashrafe) Mortaza and (Abdur) Razzak," he added.
"They are going to be formidable opposition for us."
