'It can be another milestone'
Bangladesh cricket has been going through a time when the Tigers are reaching one milestone after another in their favoured 50-over format and showing marked improvement in Test cricket. But will the Tigers' break new ground on their upcoming tour of South Africa?
Prior to the departure of the Test squad yesterday, Mushfiqur Rahim exuded confidence over his side's chances as he believes the most important thing they have achieved in the past year is 'self-belief'.
However, the Test captain did not forget to provide a reality check during a press conference at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur as he said: "It's [South Africa] such a place where all teams struggle."
He also made it clear that one could not expect performances akin to the team's poor showings on their last visit in 2008 because his side were 'more mature' and 'highly improved'. The wicketkeeper batsman further reminded of their recent performances in New Zealand where he believes they played better cricket than on previous tours despite defeats in both Tests.
"We may struggle there [in South Africa] like many other teams, but this Bangladesh team always plays to win. Many may think that we have no chance against South Africa on their home soil but I cannot agree with them. Personally I believe this series can be a big milestone for our cricket. This is a big opportunity for us and we will be able to send a message to the world if we can play good cricket there. And we are ready to take this challenge," a confident Test skipper said.
Mushfiqur rightly pointed out exactly what his team would need to do if they want to justify his words.
"This side's batsmen are more mature than those who visited South Africa last time and they are capable of taking any challenge. Yes, our bowling attack is a bit inexperienced but they are skilful. If the bowlers can bowl according to plan then they will be also be able to create problems for the South African batsmen. And you know you can have good results when you make fewer mistakes against the top sides. If we can apply our skills then we have a good chance of doing well there," he continued.
There is no doubt that in the absence of ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan from the two-match Test series a few non-performing players in the last series, such as Soumya Sarka and Imrul Kayes, must step up. And Mushfiqur was also aware of that which is why he tried to protect some players and requested reporters to end the press conference to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on Soumya, Imrul and Sabbir Rahman.
"One can criticise, but I am requesting to avoid unnecessary criticism," he urged.
Mushfiqur also said that it was a part of life for the cricketers to overcome questions or criticisms when he spoke about Bangladesh Cricket Board president Nazmul Hassan's recent comments about him.
"It's natural that you feel bad when you have been doing your job with honesty," he said, adding that he would comply with the team management's decision regarding the redefinition of his role.
After saying that 'you could call [Mahmudullah] Riyad bhai an all-rounder', Mushfiqur once again said it was quite impossible to replace Shakib and that his absence was in no way good news, but added that it was an opportunity for others. At one point he also responded to a question of whether he needs a break like Shakib, replying: "I'm not a big player like Shakib."
The first batch of cricketers left for Johannesburg in the morning while Mushfiqur accompanied the second batch, which took the evening flight.
Bangladesh will play two Tests, three ODIs and two T20Is on the tour. The Tigers will start their campaign with a three-day practice match against a South African Invitation XI on 21 September before the start of the first Test on September 28.
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