Bangladesh’s head coach Chandika Hathurusingha speaks during a press conference at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on September 17, 2024.
| Photo Credit: AFP
Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha remarked that the current squad is the most well-rounded and expressed confidence that his side can trouble the host.
“I think this is probably the most well-rounded team Bangladesh has produced in my previous (stint) and this time. Our balance in this series is good, and that gives us a lot more confidence that we can be competitive in this series,” said Hathurusingha.
“We have got good fast bowlers and an experienced spin attack. We have batting depth for two reasons: two of our spinners are genuine batters who have Test hundreds, and then two of our wicket-keepers are also our main batters,” the Sri Lankan coach added.
Big positive
Commenting on the positives from the recent 2-0 win in Pakistan, the coach highlighted the team’s ability to fight back from adversity more than the outcome as the big positive.
“It certainly gives us a lot of confidence coming into this series. Not because of the outcome of that series but because of the way we played and handled certain situations. We were behind the game in both Tests but how we came back and the people who contributed at different times gives us a lot of belief for this series,” he explained.
When asked if the weight of expectations can put pressure on his side, the former Sri Lanka cricketer said it was a good position to be in while taking on one of the toughest challenges in world cricket.
Pressure is a privilege
“Pressure is a privilege. I mean, it gives us a lot more belief and something to look forward to as well. But then we understand where we stand and our strengths and limitations.”
“We are encouraged by playing the best team in the world. Coming to India and playing against India that’s the best challenge you get nowadays in cricket. So playing against the best always gives you the perception of where you stand,” remarked Hathurusingha.
Published – September 17, 2024 02:58 pm IST
