SA vs BAN | We expect a very tough Test series against South Africa: Russell Domingo

After their resounding victory in the ODI series, Bangladesh are getting ready for the Proteas challenge in red-ball cricket as they are set to play their first Test series in the rainbow nation after a gap of five years. The South African conditions are regarded as the toughest ones among those in the SENA countries. The ball swings there; the pitches offer ample seam movement with disconcerting bounce, making it challenging for the batters.

When asked about the challenges they expect in the series, the Bangladesh coach Russell Domingo admitted that although the Tigers managed to emerge victorious in the ODI series, a Test series in South Africa would pose a completely different challenge for them because of the uniqueness of the format. Also, the former South Africa coach believes that many improvements are needed to make Bangladesh a formidable Test side. 

"We take the positive from the ODI series, but it's a different format. We have a lot of improvement to do in this format, so we expect a very tough series against South Africa," Domingo said. 

However, Domingo has clarified that their recent 8-wicket victory against the mighty Kiwis in Mount Maunganui signifies Bangladesh's improved performance in Tests. Therefore, the Bangladesh coach is hopeful that his side will give the hosts a run for their money in the upcoming red-ball series.      

"We drew the Test series in New Zealand. South Africa are a tough side to beat at home. So we do come in with a bit of confidence. I feel that our Test match cricket is improving along with the results. We have a more balanced team, and we know our best players are in the Test match format," the Bangladesh coach concluded. 

The fact that stands against the visitors is their disastrous performance on South African soil in Test cricket. Bangladesh has played six Test matches against the Proteas at their den and lost all of them, something they would like to change in the 2-match series starting March 31 in Durban.