Hasan Mahmud: 'We were able to fulfil 80% of our target in Australia'

Bangladesh pace bowler Hasan Mahmud said on Tuesday that they could achieve "80 percent" of their dream of dominating against Australia in the just concluded two-match Test series.

Bangladesh shared honours with the host as the series ended in a 1-1 draw, after Australia crushed Bangladesh by an innings defeat in Mackay after losing the opening Test at Darwin by nine wickets.

“Winning in Darwin to giving them a tough time in Mackay, dominating in bowling, the dream that we had before coming to Australia, that we would play against them and dominate. I think we were able to fulfil % of our target,” said Hasan, who picked up a fifer in the opening Test to set the tone for the touring party in Darwin.

“When we started training in Australia, our thinking, dedication and focus in practice, I would say we were able to apply it fully and all the players tried to give their best,” he said.

“We can still feel the result of our work, the thing that we all fought for, we almost achieved it, unfortunately the series was drawn but it was a big achievement for us,” he said.

“The more we play in this kind of condition, we will dominate, and get to play against the bigger teams more often, I hope to win more games in future, and dominate more in world cricket,” he said.

Hasan added that their pace unit reaped the benefits of bowling accurately, which he feels was the key behind their success.

“We (pace bowling unit) have been trying to improve in the last few years, and before coming to Australia we talked among ourselves regarding the conditions and challenges that we would face - we also communicated with the coach, analyst,” said Hasan.

“Obviously Australia are one of the world's best teams. We talked about our plans that would be in store for them, after coming to Australia we tried to put into effect in training the work that we were supposed to do, like accuracy with new ball, swinging new ball, (to) bowl maintaining line and length,” he said.

“Overall the way our pacers were working, their dedication and focus and the way they were moving forward according to plan, it was a sign of improvement I would say. Everyone tried to give their best, I think we were all able to deliver in the match, and obviously there was a major contribution from the fast bowlers behind our victory, as a fast bowling unit we were really confident for this series,” he said.

Starc's tips for Shoriful

Meanwhile, Shoriful Islam, who picked up seven wickets in the first innings of the second Test, said that he had taken some tips from Mitchell Starc following the second game of the series.

“Basically when the game ended I wanted to talk with him (Starc), and asked for some of his time which he agreed to and I inquired what kind of fitness levels he maintains before a series and how he prepares himself,” said Shoriful, who was seen talking with Starc after the second Test in Mackay.

“He (Starc) said given his age (36), his preparation is different from ours but I got to know about all this and also how he maintains himself after a game,” he concluded.

Click here to read article