'We've ability to bounce back'

The Tigers were not in ideal shape ahead of their second and final Test against South Africa, starting today, where they were going to face an immense challenge after a demoralising 333-run defeat in the first Test without their two best players -- Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal. However many can take inspiration from none other than Shakib, who firmly believes that this current team has got the ability to bounce back in Bloemfontein.

"This team has got the ability to bounce back and they will bounce back in the second Test no matter how tough the opponents and conditions are. I have the belief and I am sure those who are there also have that belief. Everybody is looking forward to coming back strong in the second Test," a confident Shakib told reporters during Bangladesh Premier League franchise Dhaka Dynamites' jersey unveiling ceremony yesterday.

The ace all-rounder, who sat out the Test series as he took a break from cricket for a while, was not surprised with the team's performance in the first Test.

"There is no reason to feel good when team didn't do well. For any team in the world it is always a challenge to play in South Africa and it is a big challenge for a team like Bangladesh. We last played there in 2008 and most of the players in this team had no experience of playing there, so it's natural that we will struggle there," explained Shakib, who loves saying how difficult it is to stay out of the team and watch them take to the middle.

Shakib may have had a break from cricket, but the all-rounder had his plate full as he took part in various social activities all over the country during his time off.

"The break was good. I spent a busy time but in my opinion this break will help me," responded Shakib when asked about his most-desired break.

He was not very interested in talking about the Marylebone Cricket Club's (MCC) wishes to appoint him as a member of the World Cricket Committee nor his inclusion in a revolutionary form of cricket -- a T-10 league in the United Arab Emirates where he will feature in December.