South Africa captain Aiden Markram has warned his side not to underestimate Bangladesh, insisting the Tigers’ improving pace attack will make them dangerous opponents during the Proteas’ packed home summer.
South Africa host Bangladesh in a two-Test series later this year before facing Australia and England, but Markram believes the Tigers deserve equal respect.
“Obviously there is Australia and England, but look at that Bangladesh team, with the pace that they have developed. They will be no pushovers at all,” said Markram after being named South Africa’s Player of the Year.
Bangladesh have enjoyed encouraging results in recent months. They secured a home Test series victory over Pakistan before beating Australia in an ODI series. Their success came largely through an improving fast-bowling unit led by Nahid Rana, with Taskin Ahmed providing valuable support.
Bangladesh have also changed their approach at home by preparing pitches with more grass as part of their long-term plans for overseas tours, including upcoming Test series in Australia and South Africa. The strategy has helped quicks such as Rana, who regularly bowls above 145 km/h.
The Tigers will arrive in South Africa after a two-Test series against Australia that begins on August 13, providing another opportunity to measure their progress in pace-friendly conditions.
Markram, who is currently playing in The Hundred, said he is excited for a home international season after South Africa went without home Test cricket last year.
“It will be nice to play Test cricket in front of our own fans and we want to make them proud,” he said.
The South Africa captain also admitted he expected more from himself individually despite winning both the CSA Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards.
