Chandika Hathurusingha, Bangladesh head coach, believes that playing against a country like India will provide his side with a valuable gauge of their international stature. His team is gearing up to face off against Rohit Sharma and Co. in a two-match Test series, starting on September 19, Thursday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
It is worth noting that Bangladesh are coming off a historic 2-0 Test series win in Pakistan last month. India, on the other hand, currently leading the World Test Championship (WTC) standings, is expected to present a much tougher challenge to their eastern neighbors.
“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 said during a pre-match press conference on Tuesday.
When asked if the whitewash of Pakistan had increased anticipations for the upcoming series, Hathurusingha admitted that the victories had indeed boosted the team’s confidence. However, he emphasized that they remain mindful of both their strengths and shortcomings.
“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. Pressure (of playing against India) is a privilege. We understand where we stand, along with our strengths and limitations,” the coach added.
The Bangladesh squad versus India includes eight specialist batters, six bowlers, and two all-rounders. Hathurusingha described this as the “most rounded” side in all departments. He also highlighted their experienced spin attack and emphasized the depth in their batting.
“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. 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,” he added.
Bangladesh will retain the services of Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Shakib performed effortlessly against Pakistan, while Mushfiqur stood out as the team’s highest run-scorer, and Miraz was their leading wicket-taker.
“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. Miraz has been the most-improved Bangladesh cricketer in the last 5-6 years and is ready to take over whenever Shakib moves out. He has been batting well, and his bowling has always been his number one strength, while he has also been great on the field lately,” the Sri Lankan all-rounder added.
Commenting on the track at Chepauk, Hathurusingha described it as looking 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,” he said further.
