Bangladesh Test opener Zakir Hasan has shared his preparations for the upcoming tour to Pakistan, where they will play a two-Test series later this month.
Zakir emphasized the challenge posed by Pakistan’s world-class bowlers, particularly their pace attack. To prepare, the team has been working hard in training camps, analyzing video footage of Pakistani bowlers, and adjusting their strategies accordingly. Zakir mentioned that Pakistan’s bowlers have always been formidable, and facing them in any format, especially in Tests, will be tough. He expressed hope that playing an ‘A’ team match in Pakistan will help him better understand the conditions and wicket.
Regarding Pakistan’s reverse swing, Zakir acknowledged its significance. He noted that Pakistani bowlers are adept at reverse swing when the ball gets older, which will present a challenge even if the batsmen are well set.
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The Bangladesh ‘A’ team will play two four-day matches against Pakistan Shaheens ahead of the Test series. Zakir highlighted the importance of sending an ‘A’ team ahead of the main squad, drawing a comparison to India’s approach. He believes that early exposure to the conditions will help both the national team and fringe players better prepare for the series.
Bangladesh’s next assignment is the tour to Pakistan, and former New Zealand pacer and current Bangladesh pace bowling coach Andre Adams shared his insights on the Tigers’ prospects. Adams identified patience as a key challenge, noting that pitches in Pakistan tend to be flat and often offer more assistance on the fourth and fifth days. He advised the pacers to be patient and understand the conditions, as the game in Pakistan often requires playing the full five days.
Adams also emphasized the importance of utilizing movement with the new ball and achieving reverse swing with the older ball. He suggested that variations such as cross seam or wobble seam could be crucial in exploiting the conditions.
