We want to do something that no Bangladesh team has done in SA before: Russell Domingo

Bangladesh will be taking on the home side South Africa in a three-match ODI series starting from March 18 (Friday). The visitors’ head coach Russell Domingo wants to achieve what Bangladesh have never managed to do, winning an ODI series against the Proteas. To note, Bangladesh will also play a two-match Test series against the Proteas which will start a week after the ODI series is done and dusted.

Domingo has served as South Africa’s head coach for four years  (2013 to 2017). As a result, he will be the perfect candidate to analyze both the teams and conditions in South Africa. The 47-year-old has opined that the three-match series would be closely fought between Bangladesh and South Africa, where the latter are superior on paper. However, Bangladesh is also performing well recently, particularly in the 50-over format.

We have definitely come here as underdogs: Russell Domingo

“We have definitely come here as underdogs, having not won a game here before. But we are confident in our one-day side. We have played well in this format for a long period of time. Players understand their roles. We are expecting a competitive series,” Domingo was quoted by ESPNCricinfo.

“But South Africa, who beat India 3-0 recently, will definitely start as favorites. They are playing in their own conditions where they are a tough side to beat. They will start as favourites, but that suits us coming as underdogs. It gives us a great opportunity to do something special. We want to do something that no Bangladesh team has done here before,” he added.

The head coach also said that with veteran player Sakib Al Hasan present in the squad. The visitors might be able to turn the tables this time around. To note, Bangladesh has lost all 19 50-over games in South Africa.

“Shakib balances our team. It is always difficult when he is not in the team – you are not sure if you need an extra bowler or extra batsman. It is great to have a player of his caliber around,” said Domingo.