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“The way we are playing cricket in the last few years, if we can continue that then we have definitely a good chance in any condition. I believe this series could become a milestone for us. We are ready to face the challenge,” he said. Bangladesh last played against South Africa in 2008, losing both the Tests by an innings. But the Test skipper believes Bangladesh are more matured now and if the players can execute the plans, then there is a good chance of achieving results in their favour. “We don’t have a good record in South Africa. Many teams more or less struggle in South Africa. May be we have to struggle there as well. But Bangladesh team have become more mature now compared to the last tour there in 2008. If we apply our skills well then we have a good chance,” he explained. “We had poor records in New Zealand. But we played well this year against New Zealand away. Although we lost both the Tests there, we managed to produce some great performances there.
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“We have played many big teams in the last two years in Tests and did well. In that sense, South Africa tour is a good chance for us to give a message about our improvement,” he said. Recently, Mushfiq’s batting position has become a concern as he usually bats at No 6 due to his wicket-keeping duty. But Mushfiq can certainly play as a specialist batsman against a quality bowling attack like South Africa. Regarding this, Mushfiq said, “The decision will be taken after consulting with the team management. We have a three-day practice match there. After assessing the condition, if the management thinks I will be a better option as a batsman then I will play accordingly. I will do what our team want or demand.” The series will definitely be a challenge for the Tigers batsmen as three South African pace bowlers are currently in the top 10 of the ICC Test bowling ranking. “Cricket is a game of challenge. We thought our batsmen were not capable against swing bowling in New Zealand. But our batsmen played well there. Actually batsmen are always facing challenge in different conditions throughout the year. But our batsmen have skill to face such challenge. We have some match-winners in our side as well,” he concluded.