Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto oozed with confidence about his pacers' ability to make an impact despite knowing the stern challenge in playing in South African conditions.
Expressing his full confidence in his fast bowlers, he said he believes they can exploit the conditions for their desired result in the opening Test of the two-match series, starting on Sunday at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.
"This (pace bowling) is the biggest change in Bangladesh cricket, especially in this format. We have got some quality fast bowlers, particularly for this kind of condition," Shanto said today at a press conference ahead of the first Test.
"Hasan, Taskin and everyone have been doing a great job for us. I believe they can do something special for the team here. Their skills and the preparation they have been doing over the last few years are outstanding."
Bangladesh have had limited time to prepare for the series following their recent Test assignment against West Indies. However, Shanto said the players were ready to adapt to the conditions, with some experienced members expected to guide the younger players.
"We don't have that much time to prepare according to the conditions. But as professional cricketers, we need to adjust. A few of the boys have experience playing here, and I think they can share that experience with the younger guys," he stated.
Bangladesh are yet to finalise their playing XI, with the team management considering whether to include an extra spinner or an additional batter.
Shanto indicated that three fast bowlers would feature in the combination, while the inclusion of a spinner was also likely. The lone spinner might be Mehidy Hasan Miraz, instead of Taijul Islam as per Shanto's indication.
"I think three pacers will definitely be there. A spinner should also be there because our spinners have been contributing well, particularly Mehidy Hasan Miraz in Australia. We may go with this combination, but we will have another look at the wicket tomorrow before making the final decision," the skipper opined.
Mominul Haque and Towhid Hridoy also would play as occasional spinners if needed alongside the specialist as it was evidenced those two bowlers bowling in the net ahead of the Test.
Shanto himself also highlighted the importance of allround contributions, revealing that Bangladesh have encouraged their specialist batters to bowl more regularly in practice.
He said Mominul Haque was encouraged to bowl regularly in the nets over the last few years, while Towhid Hridoy's bowling could also provide the team with an additional option.
Shanto stressed that Bangladesh's batting unit must deliver a strong first-innings total to put pressure on South Africa.
"It's important for the entire batting unit to perform in these conditions. Particularly, those who get set need to play long innings. Whether it is Tanzid Tamim or someone else, it is important," he said.
"Batting will certainly be challenging here. If we can put up a big total in the first innings, our bowling attack can compete very well."
Bangladesh head into the series after an encouraging nine-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin, although their subsequent Test results have not been particularly impressive.
Shanto said the team had discussed its recent shortcomings but was determined to focus on the challenges ahead rather than dwell on previous defeats.
"Mentally, everyone is in a good position. It's true that our last two or three matches haven't gone well, but instead of worrying too much about that, it's important to focus on how we can do better," he said.
Bangladesh's previous ODI series victory in South Africa also offers some encouragement, according to Shanto, who believes that success provides evidence that the team can perform well in the country.