Nayeem Anticipates Chattogram Conditions to Boost Bangladesh's Comeback Efforts

Bangladesh off-spinner Nayeem Hasan is optimistic that the conditions in Chattogram will be more favorable for his team compared to Dhaka as they prepare for the second Test against South Africa. Currently down 0-1 in the series, Nayeem believes that the pitch characteristics in Chattogram could particularly benefit the Bangladeshi batsmen following their disappointing performance in the first Test.

The teams arrived in Chattogram on October 26, with both sides completing their first practice session at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium (ZACS) on October 27. Nayeem shared his thoughts about the pitch, stating, "I haven't seen the wicket yet, but if it's spin-friendly, there will be spin. Our pitches here usually offer slower spin, which is good for us."

He further noted that players like Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim excel at handling spin, which could play a crucial role in their batting strategy. "Compared to the skiddy pitches in Mirpur, the slow nature here suits us as it is easier to adapt from a batting point of view," he explained.

Nayeem also highlighted how the slower conditions could benefit Bangladesh's spin bowlers. "The slow nature can help our spin unit because they can bowl faster, above 90 [kph]," he added. The team’s batting unit faced criticism after their seven-wicket defeat to South Africa in the first Test, a loss attributed to their inconsistent performance.

Despite the struggles, Nayeem remains hopeful about the team's prospects. "I think the wicket here will be different from Mirpur, and our spinners are, by the grace of Allah, in great shape—Taijul Islam, Shakib Al Hasan, and I hope we’ll achieve a good result," he said. As he aims for a spot in the playing XI, Nayeem expressed his eagerness to perform well in front of his home crowd.

In his last appearance at ZACS, Nayeem took six wickets against Sri Lanka in 2022. However, his inclusion in the playing XI is uncertain, as Bangladesh might opt for an additional pace bowler given the grass on the pitch, which suggests there could be some assistance for fast bowlers.

"Insha'Allah, I believe we will achieve a good result here. We'll try to level the series," Nayeem stated after training. Reflecting on his past performance, he remarked, "Alhamdulillah, the last time I played on this ground, I took six wickets. But now I'm working on my preparation, aiming to give my best. I'm focusing on what's necessary for the match and working on avoiding the mistakes from the last game."

The off-spinner emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on the process rather than the outcome. "We are all hopeful. We'll play to win, Inshallah. At the end of the day, our goal is to stick to the process. Thinking about the result now would only distract us from maintaining that process," he cautioned.

Nayeem concluded with determination, stating, "We don't want to miss this opportunity. I'll try my best to help win the match if I'm in the XI. I'll strive to be the one who brings victory for the team. If each of us believes, 'I'll win the match,' then whoever clicks will bring the win, Inshallah. I'll try to secure victory on my home ground."