‘They can come out and say whatever they want’

Australia's ace spinner Nathan Lyon gave some lively answers in his presser today after Shakib Al Hasan's lighthearted but colourful press conference yesterday.

The off-spinner was asked to comment on what he thought about Shakib Al Hasan's statement yesterday about Bangladesh spinners being better than Australia at least on home turf.

"We are just going to have to wait and see. Both spinning teams haven't come up against each other so it's a big big statement to come out and say that, but everyone is entitled to their opinion," Nathan replied.

The Australian suggested that Australia were focused on themselves.

"We are just worried about what we are doing to be honest with you.

"They can come out and say whatever they want. We are preparing well and looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."

Nathan suggests that there is no pressure on him or anyone else in the squad to perform and said that Australia need to do the basics well.

"It's an amazing country to be here and [we want] to come out here to play some good cricket, put this young group of Australians in a good mood and moving forward in the future," he added.

Shakib had earlier suggested that Bangladesh would like to win the two-Test series 2-0.

Nathan said that everyone is entitled to their own goals and opinions.

"As the Australia cricket team, we got our own goals but I'm not going to sit here and talk with you guys (laughs) about our goals," the Australian replied with zest and spirit without failing to get his point across.

"We are going to play cricket with a smile on our face and compete hard against Bangladesh. We know they are a good side, especially here at home they know how to play cricket.

"We are going to compete and hopefully walk away with a series win."

Challenge has been well and truly accepted by the Aussies as the series begins to come alive even before the first ball has been bowled.