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Bangladesh’s chief selector Habibul Bashar Sumon says the national team’s mindset has undergone a significant transformation, with the Tigers now aiming to compete for victories rather than merely survive in overseas conditions.
Speaking before departing for Australia with the second batch of the Bangladesh squad on Saturday night, Bashar said the team’s objectives have evolved dramatically since its early years in international cricket.
“The challenge existed 23 years ago and it still exists today. But our goals are different now. Back then, our main objective was to establish ourselves and survive in international cricket. Now, we are not going there just to survive—we want to achieve something meaningful,” Bashar told reporters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
Bangladesh have already sent the first batch of players to Australia ahead of the two-match Test series, with the remaining members, including Bashar, leaving later.
The former Bangladesh captain said the team’s growing maturity has instilled confidence to take on one of the world’s strongest Test sides on their home soil.
Bashar also welcomed the return of batter Litton Das to the Test squad but expressed disappointment over the likely absence of fast bowler Nahid Rana through injury.
“We had three regular members unavailable—Nahid Rana, Shariful Islam and Litton Das. We’ve got Litton back, which is certainly good news. We may not have Nahid, and if Shariful can return, it will be a big boost for us. Litton’s return has strengthened our batting,” he said.
Acknowledging Australia’s strength and the demanding playing conditions, Bashar said the players are viewing the tour as an opportunity to prove themselves rather than something to fear.
“I think everyone is very excited. The chance to do well in Australia is one of the biggest challenges of their careers. We know it will be difficult because Australia are a very strong team, but everyone wants to achieve something they will remember for the rest of their lives and that could become one of the finest achievements of their careers,” he added.
