"Congratulate them for what they did in Pakistan", says Gautam Gambhir ahead of Bangladesh Test series

Gambhir underlined the Indian team's commitment to playing their own game, rather than being overly preoccupied with the opposition's strengths

PHOTO: FILE

As India prepares to lock horns with Bangladesh in a two-match Test series, head coach Gautam Gambhir has struck a confident tone, emphasizing the team's unwavering respect for their opponents while dismissing any notions of fear.

In a press conference held on Wednesday, Gambhir underlined the Indian team's commitment to playing their own game, rather than being overly preoccupied with the opposition's strengths.

"I have been a big believer that we don’t fear anyone but we respect everyone. It is the same with Bangladesh. We don’t look at the opposition and play the game we know," Gambhir said.

Acknowledging Bangladesh's recent success in Pakistan, Gambhir acknowledged the quality and experience within their squad.

"Congratulate them for what they did in Pakistan. But this is a new series and they are a quality side and we want to play good cricket. Yes they have experience in Shakib, Mushfiqur, and Mehidy but we want to be switched on from ball 1," he said.

Gambhir's comments highlight a balanced approach as India gears up for the series, emphasizing that while the team respects their opponents, their primary focus remains on their own strengths and game plan.

The first Test will be held in Chennai, starting September 19, with the second match set for September 27 in Kanpur.

The forthcoming Test series will also be followed by a trio of T20 Internationals to be played in Gwalior, Delhi, and Hyderabad.

Bangladesh squad for India Test series: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Jaker Ali, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed.

India squad for first Bangladesh Test: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.