Dinesh Karthik expressed doubts about Bangladesh’s ability to challenge India in the upcoming Test series, despite their recent success against Pakistan.
Former Indian wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has expressed doubts over Bangladesh’s ability to challenge India in the upcoming two-match Test series. The series, starting on September 19, will be India’s first Test series against Bangladesh at home since the iconic Pink Ball Test in 2019. Despite Bangladesh’s recent win against Pakistan, Karthik remains unconvinced about their chances on Indian soil.
Speaking in a video for Cricbuzz, Karthik downplayed Bangladesh’s recent performance, emphasizing the difficulty of defeating India at home. “I personally don’t think that Bangladesh will give India a tough time. Beating India in India is a humongous task, and although Bangladesh has played well in Pakistan, I don’t believe they’ll trouble India much,” he said.
The series will also mark the return of key Indian players like Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul. Karthik shared his thoughts on young pacer Harshit Rana’s possible inclusion in the Indian squad, suggesting that India might prepare pace-friendly pitches. “Could there be a chance for Harshit Rana? I thought he bowled very well, something very special about him. I get the feeling India’s going to play on slightly pace-oriented pitches, knowing that it’s a good way to beat Bangladesh,” Karthik remarked.
ALSO READ | “Virat Kohli Played a Big Role in Turning Indian Cricket Around”: Ricky Ponting
Karthik also praised KL Rahul’s improvement as a wicketkeeper but raised concerns about the physical demands of keeping in Test matches. “KL Rahul is a very good keeper, who has improved a lot. And I don’t think it’s fair to call him a part-time wicketkeeper anymore,” he noted. However, Karthik cautioned, “Keeping in Test cricket is hard work across five days, and he’s had his struggles with injuries,” forewarning about Rahul’s optimal physical output.
Last Updated on September 13, 2024
