Dhaka, April 24 -- Bangladesh have moved a step closer to direct qualification for the next World Cup after taking four points from a possible six in their series against New Zealand.

The result has strengthened their hold on ninth place in the rankings and widened the gap over 10th-placed West Indies.

For Mehidy Hasan Miraz, though, the target is not simply to squeeze into the tournament. The Bangladesh captain wants his side to climb even higher.

The teams to qualify directly for the World Cup will be decided by the rankings on Mar 31 next year. Apart from hosts South Africa and Zimbabwe, the top eight teams in the table will earn automatic places.

A few months ago, Bangladesh's position looked far less secure.

But three straight s...