They have slayed Pakistan in Pakistan, now they are gearing up to confront the “best challenge” that is there now in cricket — playing India in India. That is how Bangladesh coach Chandika Hathurusingha summed up his team’s latest assignment.
Bangladesh are coming off a 2-0 away Test series win against Pakistan. However, India, currently leading the World Test Championship (WTC) table, are expected to pose a much stronger challenge to Bangladesh.
“We are encouraged by playing the best team in the world, and coming to India and playing against them is the best challenge you get nowadays. Playing against the best always gives you the perception of where you stand, and as sportspersons, we always look forward to it,” Hathurusingha, a former Sri Lankan all-rounder who was appointed Bangladesh coach early last year, said during a media conference on Tuesday.
Bangladesh will play India in a two-Test series, which begins on Thursday and will follow that up with three T20Is.
Victory over Pakistan has not only boosted confidence in the Bangladesh team, but it has probably also increased the pressure of expectations on them. But Hathurusingha has a different take in the matter.
“It (win against Pakistan) has certainly given us a lot of confidence coming into this series. Keeping the outcome aside, the way we played the series and we handled certain situations, like lagging and coming back, and the people who contributed to it... all give us a lot of belief for this series.
“Pressure (of playing against India) is a privilege. We understand where we stand, along with our strengths and limitations,” he said.
The Bangladesh squad comprises eight specialist batters, six bowlers and two all-rounders and Hathurusingha called it the “most rounded” side across departments.
“This is probably the most rounded team produced by Bangladesh. We have covered a lot of bases and have got a lot of fast bowlers,” he said.
“We also have an experienced spin attack, besides also having a great depth in our batting. Also, two of our spinners are genuine batters with Test hundreds. It all gives a great balance to our side, along with confidence.”
Speaking on having the much experienced Shakib Al Hasan in the team, the coach said: “Shakib has always played a huge part in Bangladesh cricket, and he always gives us the luxury to balance the team the way we want, thanks to his all-round abilities. His adaptability and experience add to it. He is coming off a county stint and is in good shape.”
With inputs from PTI