SA pace main challenge: Mushfiq

Echoing his coach, Bangladesh Test captain Mushfiqur Rahim today identified South Africa’s pace attack as the prime challenge ahead of the Test series.

“The challenge will be to play against their pace attack,” he said at a pre-match press briefing held at Chittagong’s Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury stadium.

“Their bowling attack, no matter what the condition, they are really very experienced and world class. So whatever plans we have we are doing our homework. Thats pretty much it,” he said. 

“Although Test cricket is a different ball game, but this is still an opportunity, because everyone is in good form. If the batsmen and bowlers are in good form, there is a chance to do well,” he said.

Mushfiq admitted that he is frustrated with the performance in Test matches. “Almost the same players play in the Tests as well, so why aren’t we able to put in similar performances in Test cricket? Maybe because we don’t play too many Tests, this is also an issue… the rhythm is important. ”

“There is also an issue of temperament in the longer version. But yes on the whole, I have been happy with the way our team played this year.”

Fresh from the convincing 2-1 ODI series win against the Proteas, Bangladesh will play two Test matches against the visitors at Chittagong on July 21 and in Dhaka on July 30.