Published on 12:00 AM, February 06, 2017

Not underestimating Bangladesh: Saha

Resounding success against England and New Zealand notwithstanding, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Wriddhiman Saha said Sunday his team will not take Bangladesh lightly in the one-off Test beginning February 9 in Hyderabad.

"Ranking-wise one may think they will be easier opponents on paper. But we cannot underestimate them before taking the field. It all depends on the situation on a given day. We have to approach the situation accordingly," Saha told reporters before flying out to join the team in Hyderabad.

In their last Test series, India defeated England 4-0 after a 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand but Saha said it would be about starting afresh against Bangladesh.

"Everyone wants to do well on the field. You may not do what you think. It's about converting your thoughts into a good performance."

Bangladesh's first-ever Test in India will be a prelude to Australia's four-Test series against India beginning February 23 in Pune.

"I don't know when the Aussies are coming but as of now the focus is on the Bangladesh Test. After they're here we will think about it," he said.

Fresh from a career-best 203 not out in first-class cricket for Rest of India in the Irani Trophy, Saha guided Bengal to the top of East Zone in the Twenty20 league for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

"It's difficult to be consistent in Twenty20 format. But we have done well in all the three -- bowling, batting and fielding -- departments of the game. It's an outstanding show," he said of Bengal who won all their four East Zone league matches.

With the Test in four days' time, it's time to switch style but Saha said it would not be an issue for him.