Published: Aug 23, 2017, 09:36 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 23, 2017, 09:37 PM (IST)
Stuart MacGill denied mentoring Bangladesh cricket team due to illness ahead of the two-Test series at home. The management then approached former India spinner Sunil Joshi, who was a part of the Indian team that played in Bangladesh’s first-ever Test, in 2000 at Dhaka. Incidentally, Joshi was referred by Anil Kumble during Bangladesh’s only Test in India earlier this year.
After spending a few practice sessions with the team, the new spin-bowling coach is happy with the bunch, saying that it is a blend of experience and youth. Speaking to cricketsoccer.com, Joshi said, “I’m really very impressed in the way of thinking of the boys.”
Australia, one of the strongest teams
Bangladesh had drawn 1-1 with England at home last year. Given Australia do not have good record in subcontinent conditions, Bangladesh would be eager to feed on the visitors’ weakness. However, Joshi believes it will be an uphill climb. “We are facing Australia, one of the strongest team in world cricket. They have quality cricketers in the team who can dominate in every format. The good thing is that Bangladesh is playing at home. In the subcontinent, Australia don’t have a decent record recently.”
Happy dressing-room, a key to success
Joshi believes that Bangladesh is capable of attaining many highs and that his aim is to fine-tune the team. “There is a perfect blend of experience and youth. Shakib Al Hasan, of course, is the leader of the spin unit. He has brought in a lot of experience. He is someone who can single-handedly make a difference. Then there is Mehedi Hasan Miraz, a very bright prospect. The off-spinner has already left an impact. They all have potential. All I am doing is to fine tuning the entire unit. My aim is to create an atmosphere where the spinners feel comfortable. Being in a homely, happy dressing-room is the key to success for any team in the world.”
