Bangla name Joshi as spin consultant

Bangladesh have roped in former India tweaker Sunil Joshi as the spin consultant for the upcoming two-match Test series against Australia.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) first approached the left-arm spinner after the one-off Test against India in Hyderabad in February. The former Karnataka captain has been handed the role just for the series which begins with the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National stadium in Dhaka from Sunday.

A delighted Joshi, who is the current head coach of Assam, aid he was keen on making a difference to the side. “I thank the BCB for their support and it’s a great opportunity. It is a short stint but I want to help their spinners who will be looking forward to do well in home conditions,” Joshi told DH.

Right-arm spinner Mehdi Hassan has shown promise and was the key behind Bangladesh’s four-wicket win against Sri Lanka in the second Test in Colombo in March. Apart from Mehdi, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam will be Bangladesh’s another important slow bowling option. “Bangladesh have a competitive and talented spin unit. They are high on confidence after their brilliant performance in Sri Lanka,” he said.

The Australian side have struggled in the sub-continent in the recent times but with the likes of spinner Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja and David Warner, the hosts cannot take their opponents lightly.
“Australia are a strong side. But Bangladesh have done well in the recent past and I will be guiding the players in remaining mentally strong. Apart from the technical aspects, I will bring in my experience and work on their mental strength,” said the 47-year-old who has played 15 Tests and 69 ODIs for India.