(Source X)
Bangladesh pacer Shoriful Islam has expressed his ambition to dismiss Babar Azam in the upcoming Test series. As Bangladesh and Pakistan prepare to clash in a two-match Test series beginning on August 21 in Rawalpindi, Shoriful emphasized that Babar represents a significant challenge for Bangladesh.
In an interview with Cricket Pakistan, the Bangladesh pacer also showered praise on the star Pakistan batsman.“Babar is a tough challenge for Bangladesh. So, we have to take his wicket quickly. He is also my dream wicket. I will be very happy if I can get his wicket,” Shoriful said.
Shoriful also recounted his meeting with Babar during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) last year.“I played with him last year in the CPL. He is a very good person,” he said.
Shoriful also mentioned that Babar, along with his teammate Shan Masood, will present the most significant challenges for the Bangladesh bowlers.“Babar and Shan Masood are world-class batters. But our bowling attack is also strong enough. We can put up a strong fight against them. Our task will be difficult as they play on their home ground. We have to stay prepared.”
Discussing the conditions in Rawalpindi, Shoriful mentioned that he was aware of the pitch’s favorable nature for bowlers. He outlined how his team plans to capitalize on these conditions with their seam bowlers.
“I’ve heard there’s expected to be patches of grass on the pitch, though I haven’t seen it myself yet. Every fast bowler likes that because it offers seam movement. So, if that’s the case, it’s definitely a good thing,” he added.
Islam is making a gradual return to red-ball cricket after spending considerable time in franchise tournaments. He recognized that preparing for the longer format demands a distinct type of physical and mental readiness.
On the other hand, Pakistan has not played Test cricket since their 0-3 defeat to Australia in January earlier this year. Their most recent Test series against Bangladesh was a home series in December 2021, which Pakistan won 2-0. They will now aim to replicate that success on home soil this year.
