Published: Sep 17, 2024, 03:10 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 17, 2024, 03:10 PM (IST)
Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha feels that playing against India will give his team a fair assessment of where they stand internationally.
The Tigers are coming off a triumphant 2-0 away Test-series win against Pakistan, having annihilated the Shan Masood-led side by 10 wickets in the opening game, following which they won the second match by 6 wickets. 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,” said Hathurusingha during the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.
Following the 2-match Test series, India and Bangladesh will also lock horns in a 3-match T20I series that will also take place in India.
Hathurusingha, when asked if the Test series whitewash of Pakistan had created pressure of expectation on his side coming into the series against India, said that though the victories had boosted the team’s confidence.
“It’s (win against Pakistan) 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,” Hathurusingha said.
“Pressure (of playing against India) is a privilege. We understand where we stand, along with our strengths and limitations,” Hathurusingha added.
The Bangladesh coach also called his current side as the “most rounded” Bangladesh side across all 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,” Hathurusingha 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,” Hathurusingha added.
Speaking about the track, which has a fair sprinkling of red soil, the Bangladesh coach said it looked like a “sporting wicket”.
“It looks like a sporting wicket at this stage. But, judging by the sub-continent conditions, it can change right from Day 1. Not sure when it is going to start turning though,” Hathurusingha said.
