IND vs BAN: We are here to focus on how we can win, says Rohit Sharma; what Bangladesh coach said?

India’s cricket captain, Rohit Sharma, addressed the media ahead of the first Test match against Bangladesh, set to begin on Thursday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. The highly anticipated series marks Team India's return to international cricket after a 45-day break, while Bangladesh comes into the match buoyed by a 2-0 Test series victory against Pakistan on foreign soil. 

However, playing in India presents a tougher challenge for Bangladesh, especially given that Rohit Sharma and his men currently lead the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table.

Our focus was to perform on the field: Rohit

Rohit is well aware of the threat Bangladesh poses but kept his response measured when questioned about Bangladesh's recent form. He emphasized that Team India's primary focus is on their own performance rather than being distracted by the opposition’s recent success.

"Let them (Bangladesh) enjoy their success, we are here to focus on how we can win. That's the goal. We're not concerned with what they have to say or think about us. When England toured here, they said a lot of things too, but we didn’t pay much attention. Our focus was to perform on the field, and it will be the same here. We’re here to play good cricket and win. India has faced several strong teams recently, and our combined goal is to emerge victorious, rather than overthinking the opposition," Rohit stated in the pre-match press conference.

Rohit’s remarks highlight India’s strategy of prioritizing their own gameplay and preparation over getting caught up in the opposition’s narrative or pre-match statements. This approach has served the Indian team well in the past, especially during home series where conditions favor them.

We are excited to play against the best team in the world: B'desh coach

On the other side, Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha acknowledged the formidable challenge that playing against India presents. He believes that this series will provide his team with a clear understanding of its standing on the international stage. Bangladesh's recent successes, while encouraging, will be put to the test against the world’s top-ranked side.

"We are excited to play against the best team in the world. Coming to India and competing with them is one of the greatest challenges in cricket today. Playing against the best team gives you an accurate idea of where you stand, and as sports professionals, that’s something we always look forward to," said Hathurusingha, a former Sri Lankan all-rounder who took on the role of Bangladesh’s head coach early last year.

Hathurusingha’s statements reflect Bangladesh’s pragmatic approach to the series. While their victory against Pakistan has instilled confidence, the coach was quick to acknowledge that the team is well aware of its strengths and weaknesses. The series against India, he believes, will provide a realistic measure of the team's capabilities in the longer format of the game.

Hathurusingha downplays any added pressure

When asked whether the recent whitewash of Pakistan has added pressure to the Bangladesh side, Hathurusingha explained that while the wins have certainly uplifted the team’s morale, there is also an understanding within the squad of the challenges ahead. He downplayed any added pressure, focusing instead on the importance of playing to their potential.

Following the two-Test series, Bangladesh will also face India in a three-match T20I series beginning on October 6, further intensifying the cricketing rivalry between the two nations.

As the series opener approaches, both teams are geared up for a competitive battle. India, playing at home and led by the experienced Rohit Sharma, will look to solidify their position at the top of the WTC standings. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, under Hathurusingha’s guidance, sees this as an opportunity to challenge themselves against one of the strongest teams in the world, aiming to push their limits and gauge their international standing.

The upcoming series promises a compelling contest between a dominant Indian side and a confident Bangladesh team seeking to make its mark on Indian soil.