Shanto backs injury-hit Tigers to rise to Australia challenge

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has thrown his full support behind his injury-hit squad ahead of the team's historic Test tour of Australia.

The southpaw insisted that injuries are no excuse and expressed confidence that the Tigers can produce competitive cricket despite missing several key players.

Bangladesh leave for Australia on Friday for their first Test tour Down Under in 23 years, with the opening five-dayer scheduled in Darwin on 13 August before the second match in Mackay from 22 August.

The visitors will be without pace sensation Nahid Rana, left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam and wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das for the opening Test due to injuries.

Rana suffered a Grade 2 side strain during the Zimbabwe T20 International series, while Shoriful is recovering from a hamstring injury and Litton is yet to regain full fitness from a calf injury.

Shanto however, refused to dwell on the absentees, saying that injuries are part of the game.

"Injuries are honestly beyond anyone's control. Any player can get injured at any time. But I have complete faith in the team that is going to Australia and believe we can play good cricket," Shanto told reporters before the team's departure.

"There's no point now thinking about which player would have made us better or who we're missing. I think what matters is how well this team can play and how much belief we have in it. I certainly have that belief," he added.

The skipper also backed those drafted into the squad, saying that the tour offers them an opportunity to establish themselves at the highest level.

"Injuries can happen. Nahid Rana, Shoriful and Litton Das are obviously important players. But those who are in the squad have also been playing for many years. This is a great opportunity for those who have got their chance to perform well. As captain, I can't expect to always have my best players available. I have complete faith in whoever gets the opportunity," he said.