We can win both the Tests against Australia: Shakib Al Hasan

Bangladesh all-rounder and one of the most experienced campaigner in the side Shakib Al Hasan believes that his side is capable of beating Australia in the upcoming Test series, starting this Sunday (August 27). Mushfiqur Rahim’s Bangladesh will take on Steve Smith‘s team in the series opener at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Australia last travelled to the city back in 2006.

Challenge for the visitors

For Shakib, it will be a milestone Test match, as he will be playing in his 50th game. He strongly feels that the home side can win both the Test matches and they have the potential to clean sweep the series. The Australian team couldn’t take part in the practise game, as it was flooded all over the ground due to heavy showers. Coach Darren Lehmann and team was disappointed but understands the challenge in hand.

“I think it is possible to win both Test matches,” Sakib told reporters in Mirpur while pointing out his ambitions against the Aussies on Thursday (August 24). “There is no reason why we can’t do that. If you ask me about my own expectations then I would say with it would be to win both Tests,” he said.

10 years of Test cricket

The all-rounder made his debut in 2007 but played only 49 Test matches in the last 10 years. Shakib said that he doesn’t regret the lack of Test matches in his career, and also added that he is very happy for all that he has achieved so far.

“I don’t have much regret in my life. I am very much happy with what has happened with me. I would feel much better if I could play more matches,” he said. “Those matches I have played and had a good performance, all are important to me. I would say the Test match against England in 2016 is the most memorable one. As my individual performance, I can remember my 92 runs against West Indies. Scoring 217 against New Zealand was a big achievement for me,” the all-rounder added.

Apart from Shakib, Tamim Iqbal too will be playing his 50th Test match during the 1st game against Australia.