Sports Correspondent:The first test match between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka will open tomorrow morning at Galle International Stadium in Sri Lanka.
Although Sri Lanka have had a fairly humbling experience in the Tests in South Africa, Bangladesh skipper Mushfiqur Rahim was not doubting his opponents� prowess at home.
�They know how to win at home, seeing how they played against Australia. We are ready to face a hard time, and I hope we can be competitive for the whole game, and not just three or four days,� said Mushfiqur, in obvious reference to Bangladesh�s recent reverses on the tours of New Zealand and India, where the Tigers� competitiveness fizzled out on the fifth days of each Test match.
But the Galle International Stadium is a site of fond memories for Bangladesh and Mushfiqur in particular. Four years ago almost to the day, Bangladesh started a Test match here that saw their highest total, and their first double-centurion in Mushfiqur.
�It is always a nice feeling to have achieved something as an individual and team. But it is a new game, and it looks like a new Sri Lanka attack apart from Rangana [Herath],� said Mushfiqur during the pre-match press conference at noon today. He also felt that it is hotter in Galle than it was four years ago.
�It is hotter than last time so we should be prepared focus harder. It is an area of concern but we are adjusting fast. The heat might help break down the wicket faster, but if the batsmen apply themselves, there are plenty of runs available. I think there will be something for the quicks in the first two days. The wind might also help them with movement. As the days progress, spin will also come into play.�