Leading all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan was finally on his way to join his teammates in South Africa as Bangladesh are set to play a three-match ODI series and a two-match Test series in challenging conditions starting from March 18.
 

"Expectation will be to win. It would be great to win the series," Shakib told the media at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport today.  

Bangladesh however, currently on top of ICC ODI Super League, have played six Tests, nine ODIs and four T20Is so far in South Africa and lost all games. Shakib considers breaking the deadlock against the Proteas in South Africa would be huge.   

"But even winning a single match would be a great achievement, in my opinion. I think the whole team have similar target," Shakib added.

Shakib addresses the media at the HSIA. Photo: Firoz Ahmed

The last time Shakib travelled away from Bangladesh was under different circumstances. On March 06, before leaving for Dubai to fulfill commercial commitments, Shakib had revealed his unwillingness to play in South Africa to the media, citing his state of mental health.  

Asked if he was leaving with a positive mindset this time, Shakib informed, "Much relieved [this time]. After all, to be with the team is always a matter of enjoyment."