Najmul Hossain Shanto talks about adaptability ahead of first Test
Bangladesh cricket team captain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, has emphasized the importance of focusing on his team's strengths rather than their opponents. This approach is part of their preparation for the upcoming two-match series against India, which begins in Chennai on September 19. Despite being considered underdogs against a formidable Indian side, the Bangladesh team is determined to put up a strong fight.
Najmul Hossain stresses on self-belief and adaptation
In a press conference, Hossain stated, "I think it's important to think about ourselves rather than thinking about opponents. What strengths we have. I believe we have the ability to play good cricket here." He further added that their goal is not just to participate but also strive for victory in every match they play. The captain believes that a strong performance in this series could open doors for more international matches for Bangladesh in the future.
Hossain confident about team's ability to adapt
The Bangladesh skipper acknowledged the challenges of playing with the SG ball, a change from their last series against Pakistan where Kookaburra balls were used. However, he expressed confidence in his team's ability to adapt. "Challenges will be there (playing with SG balls). We practiced with SG balls in Bangladesh before coming here," he said. He also appreciated his team's balance of spin and pace bowlers, stating that they are prepared for any situation that may arise during the game.
Hossain praises team's pace bowling unit
Hossain also lauded his team's pace bowling unit, particularly Nahid Rana, for their performance in the 2-0 series win against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. "Yes, he (Nahid Rana) is very exciting and the way he bowled against Pakistan. It's really impressive and looks very nice," he said. However, he clarified that his focus is not on any individual player but on the team as a whole. Rana managed figures of 1/30 and 5/102 in the first and second matches respectively.
Shanto's Test career numbers, performance against India
Overall, the skipper has managed 1,539 runs in 29 matches at an average of 28.50. He owns a high score of 163 and boasts five hundreds and three fifties in Tests. According to ESPNcricinfo, in 13 away matches he has amassed 781 runs at an average of 32.54. He has smashed two hundreds and one fifty in away matches. However, against India has has featured only in two matches managning 96 runs at an average of 24.
