Shanto calls Bangladesh’s bowling depth a ‘luxury’ ahead of Mackay Test

Australia vs Bangladesh
Najmul Hossain Shanto
Najmul Hossain Shanto
Online Desk
Online Desk
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has described the team’s bowling depth as a “luxury” ahead of the second Test against Australia in Mackay, with the Tigers weighing whether to retain the winning combination from Darwin or bring left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam into the XI.

Shoriful, who missed the first Test with a hamstring strain, has returned to full fitness and impressed during training, offering Bangladesh another pace option.

However, Shanto remains highly satisfied with the combination that helped Bangladesh secure a historic nine-wicket win in Darwin.

“I've said many times that the spin attack we have, they are very experienced and they can bowl in any conditions,” Shanto said. “So I have that luxury to go with three quicks and two spinners.”

Bangladesh could also turn to a fourth seamer if conditions demand it, with Shoriful among the options.

“If we really feel that we need a fourth seamer, the fourth and fifth seamers are ready. At the moment I'm really happy with the two spinners and the pace.”

The cooler and windier conditions in Mackay could influence Bangladesh’s final combination, with Shanto suggesting the breeze may provide assistance to the bowlers.

Bangladesh will announce their XI at the toss, while Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim have both been cleared for selection despite recent fitness concerns.

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