Pride drives MSD’s men

The two-Test-series that begins here on Sunday might not go the distance, but the Indians are not taking things lightly.

The two-Test-series that begins here on Sunday might not go the distance, but the Indians are not taking things lightly. It's a matter of pride now that they are on top of the International Cricket Council Test rankings and feel the difference between them and Bangladesh should be justified by the margin of victory.

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“How we begin the year is very important. More so, because we are on top of the rankings and have a very competitive series against South Africa lined up,” said Rahul Dravid.

“We are not underestimating Bangladesh and we want to give off our best here,” he said.

Especially after missing out on the tri-series trophy, India would not want to return empty-handed. Bangladesh would love that to happen, but the players did not sound optimistic.

Their hopes rest solely on batting and the difference in standards was evident when Tamim Iqbal said his century against the West Indies last year was a landmark because it was the first time that he had played more than 250 balls. “I am trying to be patient. In Test matches, that is the key but patience is one of my weak points,” he said. “It will be a great learning experience. We don't get to play top sides in Tests very often and I am looking forward to it.”

Upside down
It was surprising to see the Tri-colour fluttering upside down at the team hotel. Such a thing has happened in the past back home and has been a source of unrest. On Friday, however, the error was spotted and the hotel staff rectified it quickly.