Domingo excited at chance to coach Shakib and Co
Russell Domingo, the newly-appointed head coach of Bangladesh national cricket team was excited at the opportunity to coach the Tigers and players of the quality of Shakib Al Hasan.
Bangladesh finished eighth in the standings in the recently concluded World Cup in England and Domingo was aware of the challenge awaiting him. The South African, who was coach of the Proteas from 2013 to 2017, knows that coaching a team from the subcontinent presents a different kind of challenge.
"I have been to Bangladesh six times and the nation is very passionate about the game. I will try my best to fulfil their wish," Domingo told The Telegraph from Port Elizabeth on Saturday.
"It's going to be a great challenge working in the subcontinent," he added.
He was keen on the prospect of coaching the likes of Shakib, Mahmudullah Riyad and Mustafizur Rahman but as he had mentioned before, he was also keen to find younger players for the future.
"Bangladesh have very talented players in Shakib-al Hasan, Mahmudullah and Mustafizur Rahman. Not only them, the team overall has much potential. I am excited that I'll be working with them.
"I have also seen their U-19 team. There are some exciting players and hopefully they will make the senior team in the near future… I'm keen to tap their talent and look forward to working with them," he said. "It is a massive honour...."
Domingo has already worked with batting coach Neil Mckenzie and pace bowling coach Charl Langeveldt during his tenure with South Africa. He was hoping to renew their partnership right off the bat while also putting emphasis on the upcoming lone Test against Afghanistan.
"They know the system and how it works. I will talk to them and that will be of great help."
"The Test match against Afghanistan starts from September 5. We have to do well in the game," he said.
Asked about the series against India, Domingo said: "It is going to be a big series but that is in November. So at this point of time, I am not thinking about that."