Shoriful eyes Babar's wicket in Test series

Bangladesh's left-arm pacer expresses eagerness to face Pakistani batsmen

As Bangladesh prepares for their two-Test series against Pakistan, beginning on August 21, left-arm fast bowler Shoriful Islam shared his excitement and readiness for the challenge during a press conference in Lahore on Friday.

Discussing the conditions at Rawalpindi, known for its fast-bowler-friendly pitch, the 23-year-old emphasised the potential for seam movement.

"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," Shoriful said.

Shoriful, who has been transitioning back to red-ball cricket after playing in franchise tournaments, acknowledged the adjustment required for Test cricket.

"Test cricket requires a different kind of preparation, mentally and physically. But we still have some time before the match, and I believe that by the 21st, with more practice sessions, my fitness and bowling will be well-suited for red-ball cricket," he said.

Grateful for the facilities the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) provided, the left-arm pacer also discussed the team's efforts to acclimate to Lahore's intense heat.

"The facilities here are top-notch, and while the weather is quite hot, we're all trying our best to acclimate as quickly as possible," he said.

Shoriful, who recently returned to the Test format after participating in the Lanka Premier League (LPL) and Global T20 (GT20), expressed his eagerness to face Pakistani batters, particularly Babar Azam.

"Babar and Shan Masood are world-class batsmen. 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 in their home ground. We have to stay prepared," he said.

One of Shoriful's main objectives is to dismiss Babar Azam, which he referred to as his "dream wicket." Reflecting on his experience playing alongside Babar in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) last year, he shared his thoughts on this goal.

"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. I played with him last year in the CPL. He is a very good person," he said. While acknowledging Bangladesh's lack of experience playing in Pakistan, Shoriful emphasised the need to adjust to the conditions, particularly at Rawalpindi. "We have not played much cricket in Pakistan. So, we need to adjust here a bit. Also, there is a need for adjustment for the Rawalpindi's wicket."

Slow internet service bothers BD players

The Bangladesh cricket team players have expressed frustration with the slow internet service at their hotel, which has hindered their ability to stay in touch with family amid the political unrest in Bangladesh.

According to a local media report, Bangladesh players have complained to their team management about the situation.

On the other hand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has stated that the Bangladesh cricket authorities have not lodged any complaints about slow internet.

The Internet Service Providers (ISPs) Association has reported a 30 to 40 percent reduction in internet speed across the country.

Additionally, recent reports indicated that the speed of social media platforms had slowed due to the government's experimental implementation of a firewall.