Looking forward to India’s tour to Australia, that will be the real test: Sourav Ganguly

Former cricketer Sourav Ganguly expects India to go past Bangladesh in the two-match Test series slated to begin on September 19. However, he warned the Rohit Sharma-led side to not take Bangladesh lightly as they will be full of confidence after a historic series win against Pakistan earlier in the month.

Ganguly instead is eager to see how India does in the five-match away series against Australia, starting November 22. India have managed to win their last two series in Down Under and will be eyeing for a hat-trick. The 52-year-old stated that the Australia series will be the real test and added that the England series in 2025 will be crucial as well. He noted that the pacers will play an important part in both the series.

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“I don't see Bangladesh winning; India will win the series. But India must expect good and tough cricket from Bangladesh because they are coming into the series with a lot of confidence after beating Pakistan in Pakistan,” Ganguly told reporters in Kolkata.

“I am looking forward to their tour to Australia; that, for me, will be the real test for the squad. Then, when they tour England in July, these are the two most important tours, to be honest. I think the pace bowling department, with Bumrah and Siraj, and once Shami comes back, will be strong,” he added.

Akash Deep will be as quick as Siraj and Shami: Ganguly

Akash Deep was called up in the Indian team for the England series, where he played just one game in Ranchi and picked up three wickets, Recently, in the Duleep Trophy, he picked up a five-for against India B and courtesy of which, he has been called up for the Bangladesh series. Speaking about the same, Ganguly lauded the Bengal pacer and stated that he will be as quick as Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami in the near future.

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“Akash Deep is an outstanding young fast bowler. He runs in, bowls quick, and will bowl for long periods. I've seen him play for Bengal, taking wickets. He will be as quick as Siraj and Shami, hitting high 140s. He is one to watch out for,” he added.