Bangladesh Focuses on Tackling Bounce Ahead of First Test in Australia Since 2003

Bangladesh is preparing for its first Test match on Australian soil since 2003, with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasizing the importance of managing the extra bounce from Australia’s tall quick bowlers. This comes on the heels of a disappointing collapse to 54 all out in a practice match against a Cricket Australia XI, raising concerns within the team.

Despite the practice match setback, Shanto expressed confidence in the team’s preparations, stating, “Tackling the bounce is the key, but we have been preparing on bouncy wickets at home in the last few months.” He further noted that the team arrived in Darwin 10 to 12 days prior to the Test, allowing them ample time to acclimate to the conditions.

Shanto acknowledged the challenge posed by Australia’s world-class bowling attack but asserted it presents a valuable opportunity for Bangladesh to test their skills. “We are confident that we will play some good cricket. As a batting unit, there will be a lot of challenges,” he stated.

Bangladesh has recently seen success in international cricket, with a 2-1 ODI series victory against Australia and a 2-0 win over Pakistan in May, which has elevated them to fourth place in the World Test Championship standings. “The win against Australia in the ODI series in June gives us a lot of confidence. It was the first time we beat them in a series,” Shanto remarked.

Litton Das has been declared fit for the Test, providing Bangladesh with valuable depth in the lower-middle order. Shanto mentioned that his inclusion is crucial, especially given the struggles of the opening pair. He also suggested that the team might include both frontline spinners, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam, alongside three fast bowlers in their lineup.

On the pitch conditions, Shanto described the wicket as “pretty good,” highlighting the necessity for the team to adapt to playing on a drop-in surface. “There’s grass on the wicket, but it’s a good wicket where both batters and bowlers will find help,” he added.

Despite Bangladesh’s preparations, they face a daunting challenge against an Australian side featuring their first-choice bowlers, including Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon. The absence of pace spearhead Nahid Rana adds to the team’s difficulties, particularly following their recent practice match performance.

Shanto concluded by reinforcing the team’s goal: “We want to play till the fifth day, take it session by session.” The focus will remain on building consistency to fend off Australia’s formidable attack.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn