A win in Pakistan would lift the spirits back home: Shoriful Islam

Following Bangladesh's momentous Test series win over Pakistan, the cricketing world is abuzz with hopes of a new chapter for the team, with expectations that Bangladesh will now perform more consistently against top-tier teams.

In a recent video released by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Sunday, pace sensation Shoriful Islam reflects on the significance of this triumph.

He highlights how the win has not only bolstered the team's confidence but also served as a beacon of hope for cricket fans back home. Shoriful's comments offer a glimpse into the team's preparation, the challenges they faced, and their aspirations for the upcoming series against India

Reflecting on the series against Pakistan, Shoriful said, "When we first arrived in London for preparation, everyone, whether pacers or batsmen, had one thing on their minds, we've played Pakistan many times but have never won a Test match against them. This time, we believed our experience would give us the edge. For example, Mushfiqur bhai, with 90 Test matches, is the most experienced player between the two teams, which is no small feat, especially for a Bangladeshi cricketer."

Discussing the team's preparation, he mentioned how the conditions in Lahore helped them acclimatise to Rawalpindi. "The Lahore weather, being hotter than Rawalpindi, really helped us adjust better to the conditions there," he said.

Shoriful also spoke about the uncertainty surrounding the series due to political unrest in Bangladesh, saying, "During the protests, we were unsure if the tour would go ahead. But once it was confirmed, we knew that a win here would give the people back home something to celebrate."

One of Shoriful's standout moments came early in the series, when he dismissed Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, for a duck on the first day of the first Test. "Babar Azam's wicket was definitely a dream for me," he revealed. "During a press conference in Pakistan, a journalist asked me who I would target, and I said it would be Babar. I've played with him in the BPL, so I prepared well, and Alhamdulillah, I got the wicket."

The Bangladesh pace attack made history in the second Test, becoming the first set of Bangladeshi pacers to take all 10 wickets in an innings.

Speaking about this significant moment, Shoriful said, "When we were coming up, pacers weren't a regular feature in the national team's playing XI. But now, we're seeing a shift, and our pacers are performing well. If the conditions abroad favour pace, we have the depth to excel. Even if one of us is injured, there are others ready to step in, like Taskin did when I was sidelined. This collective effort gives me immense joy."

Shoriful also praised Nahid Rana, Bangladesh's newest express pacer, who clocked 152 kph during the series and turned the second Test around by taking 4 for 44. "Rana is an exciting prospect," Shoriful said. "If he stays fit and plays regularly, he'll definitely be a great asset for us in the future."

Looking ahead to the two-match Test series against India, which starts on 19 September, Shoriful stressed the importance of adapting to the conditions and the type of ball that will be used. "The difference between the Kookaburra and SG balls will require some adjustment time," he explained.

He also acknowledged the strength of India, saying, "India is definitely stronger than Pakistan. They're vastly experienced and a powerhouse in Test cricket. If we can compete well against these big teams, it will draw global attention and help us elevate our cricket. Inshallah, we'll aim to build on the momentum from the Pakistan series and continue our consistency against the top sides."

Bangladesh and India will face off in the Test series from 19 September to 12 October, followed by a three-match T20I series.