Clean sweep possible against Australia, says Shakib
Ace Bangladesh allrounder Shakib Al Hasan is planning a startegy to thrash the world’s No.2-ranked Test side in the two-Test series. He believes in Bangladesh's spin attack and is aiming for a clean sweep the series against Australia that will commence on August 27th at the Shere Bangla stadium.
The world's top all rounderin all three cricket formats, Shakib Al Hasan wants a clean sweep for Bangladesh against Australia in the two-Test series that will begin with the first match on Sunday in Dhaka.
Since Ricky Ponting's side toured in 2006 and claimed the series 2-0, this opening Test will be the first between Australia and Bangladesh. Bangladesh acquired Test status in 2000 and has been trying to build on their form to win on home soil against Australia.
"I don't see why it can't be possible. Our expectation: winning both Tests. We need to do well in all aspects if we want to win the Tests. Whatever the strengths they have, Australia are always tough opposition. They can adapt to any conditions very quickly. None can do this better than the Aussies," said Shakib to the reporters.
Australia have been training in Darwin to acclimatize themselves to the hot and humid conditions expected for the two-Test series.
However, there will still be issues in playing in the hot climate since the players are not used to it and Glenn Maxwell suffered a heatstroke during an early training session.
According to Shakib, Bangladesh is hoping to capitalise on Australia's poor run in recent south Asia clashes. In 2016, the world No. 2 Test side lost 0-3 to Sri Lanka in a series, before succumbing 1-2 against India earlier this year.Â
Meanwhile, Bangladesh won two of its last three Tests, one against Sri Lanka and a historic triumph over England.
Shakib, said Bangladesh's spin attack is going to put pressure on the Steven Smith-led side. Sri Lanka is relying on Shakib, Mehdi Hasan, the offspinner, and Taijul Islam, the left-arm spinner, to undo Australia's formidable batting line-up.
"I think our spin attack is better than them. I won't say in all conditions, but in our conditions we are better than them. Taijul and Miraj (Mehedi) are bowling well for a long period. I hope they will do well in this series as well," said Shakib.
When Bangladesh recorded their first-ever Test win over England, by 108 runs in October, Shakib, Mehedi and Taijul took all 20 wickets.
The second Test of the series is scheduled be held in Chittagong from September 4-8.
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