Agency :
After the ongoing Test series, Bangladesh will face India in a three-match T20I series, which Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain believes will be quite challenging. However, he is determined to overcome obstacles and win the series.
India, currently ranked number one in T20I rankings, won the World Cup just a couple of months ago under Rohit Sharma’s leadership. On paper, India will have the upper hand in the upcoming series but Rishad is set to enter the field with a fighting spirit ahead of facing the world champions.
“India is always a strong team. I think they are currently the number one team in T20I rankings. Playing against them will definitely be challenging, but I hope, In Shaa Allah, we will win the series. We’re preparing with that mindset. None of us believe we can’t win. In Shaa Allah, we will return with a series victory.” Rishad said to media in Mirpur on Saturday.
The first T20I against India will be held on October 6 in Gwalior, followed by the second match on October 9 in Delhi. The final match will take place on October 12 in Hyderabad. Despite playing in different conditions, Rishad is not too concerned about the pitch.
“We are practicing accordingly, and the wicket is not in our control. Whatever conditions or wickets we face, we need to adapt and perform. We’re preparing to perform regardless of the conditions,” he added,
Rishad took 14 wickets in the last T20 World Cup. Despite his impressive performance, Bangladesh failed to reach the semifinals as a team. Looking ahead, Rishad wants to move on from that disappointment.
“What happened in the World Cup is behind us now. We will try to perform even better. Preparations are underway, and the India series is ahead,” he concluded.
India series could be a dress rehearsal for the Indian Premier League, however, Rishad, who is selected to play Big Bash, is not concerned about the IPL yet.
“I’m not really thinking much about the IPL at the moment. Right now, my focus is on playing for my country. It’s not like I have a big dream of playing the IPL. Of course, everyone would love to play in the IPL, which would also benefit the country. I also have that desire, but it’s not something that must happen. I do hope to play in it someday, In Sha Allah.”