Need to play two players in place of Shakib al Hasan, claims Mushfiqur Rahim

Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim, on Saturday, said his team are eyeing a “landmark” series against South Africa when they play two Test matches there later this month. A 15-man Bangladesh squad has left Dhaka for the upcoming series, which is set to begin with the first Test match at Potchefstroom on September 28.

Bangladesh doesn’t particularly have a great history in South Africa in their previous two visits in 2002 and 2008 as they lost all four Tests there a margin of an innings in each game. That said, it would be understandable to expect that things are likely to be different this time with Bangladesh cricket making considerable progress over the last few years.

“Some people may think we don’t have any chance against South Africa. But I don’t agree with them. We don’t have a very good record in South Africa. And very few of our players played in South Africa. It is a kind of place where everybody struggles. Maybe we also have to struggle,” quoted Mushfiqur Rahim according to Indian Express.

“Personally I think if you don’t believe in yourself, you won’t get any success. Firstly, we have to believe that it is possible for us to beat South Africa. We did not have this belief even three years ago,” added the Bangladeshi captain.

“So we have now got the confidence. Hopefully, this series will be a kind of landmark for us. And we are ready to take that challenge. If we can play well the two Tests overseas that will be a kind of message,” further mentioned the 29-year old.

Shakib’s absence is a headache for captain

With star player Shakib Al Hasan sitting out these two Test matches after requesting for a six-month break from Tests. The plea for the Test break came amid concerns over player fatigue, as well as criticism that players are prioritizing earnings over representing their nation.

The leading all-rounder has played every Test for Bangladesh since missing two games against the West Indies in 2014 because of a suspension. Mushfiqur said the absence of star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is a setback for the side. “You need to play two players in his place, to be honest –- one batsman, one bowler… for me as a captain his absence is a kind of setback,” claimed Rahim.

The second Test will be held at Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein on October 6-10. Bangladesh will also play three one-day internationals and two T20Is on their month-long tour. Shakib al Hasan will be available for the fixtures in coloured clothing against South Africa.