Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has expressed confidence in young fast bowler Nahid Rana’s ability to make an impact in the upcoming Test series against Zimbabwe. His remarks came in response to a cheeky comment from Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams about the pacer’s speed.

Williams, who has never faced Rana in any format, downplayed concerns over the right-arm quick’s pace during a press conference on Friday. “Many bowlers bowl fast these days. It’s not like he’s the only one in the world. We’ve got bowling machines that deliver faster than most bowlers,” he said.

When asked about Williams’ comment, Najmul said Zimbabwe would get a clearer picture once they face Rana on the field. “You’ll see for yourself tomorrow,” Shanto told reporters on the eve of the first Test in Sylhet. “When he bowls and Zimbabwe’s batters face him, their body language will show just how different Nahid really is.”

Najmul also mentioned that the team has consistently encouraged the 21-year-old to focus on pace. “I’ve known him since his academy days. The message to him has always been simple: bowl over 140 kilometres per hour. If he plays tomorrow, I hope he’ll hit that mark,” he said.

The first of the two-Test series begins Saturday at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, with the second and final match set to start on 28 April in Chattogram.