We can compete with any team now: Chandika Hathurusingha

After defeating Australia in the first Test match of the two-match series, Bangladeshi fans are on cloud nine now. In the past few years, they have seen their team rise meteorically to achieve new highs. The Tigers are now capable of causing an upset anytime they play up to their potential and the big guys of international cricket are well aware of that.

Bangladesh coach pleased with the belief of the side

On Wednesday, Bangladesh simply snatched the victory from Australia‘s grasp and credits must be given to veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and his partner in crime Taijul Islam. However, the man who has worked relentlessly for the betterment of Bangladeshi cricket, their head coach Chandika Hathurusingha often stays away from the spotlight. Regarding the team selection conundrum, the Bangladeshi players even complained the BCB about the authoritarian attitude of their coach. But keeping all controversies aside, Hathurusingha’s team has delivered yet again.

When asked about his opinion after the match, he said that the never-ending belief is persistent in the squad that they can compete against any team and shall no longer be made a bunny. “In the last few years, we’ve been consistent at home and by playing on pitches that suit our style, players have gained confidence. They don’t feel inferior and believe they can compete with any team now, which is why we’ve been able to beat England, Sri Lanka and Australia in the last 12 months. It’s only the reflection of the team’s belief,” he said while speaking to The New Indian Express.

Hathurusingha also mentioned about the importance of patience and belief in cricketers. “They have never been short of talent. It was all about building confidence and that comes when you win. Once we got that, we took it to the next step, to go out and win Tests. We focussed on the long-run, where we built a formidable team with the right mix of experience and youth,” the Sri Lankan said.

After the end of the day’s play on the 3rd day of the Test, no one would have dared to put their money on Bangladesh. On handing the baggy greens a drubbing from the win-win situation, Chandika said “We had an honest talk. Nobody was nervous, nor was there any adrenaline rush. I told them not to bother about the outcome. On the final session on Day 3, Australia punished us because we didn’t bowl well. Our strength is accuracy in bowling and making batsmen play. We erred slightly and the plan was to get it right throughout the day.”

Shakib and Tamim know what is expected of them

The Bangladeshi squad has the mixture of experience and exuberance in right proportions, but experience played the major role in the first Test as seniors Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan were the main architects of the victory. On their performance, Hathurusingha stated “Shakib and Tamim know now what’s expected of them. They know good days and bad days will be there, but an effort is what that matters in the end. This has rubbed off on other players.”