Bangladesh know it will be tough but ready for India challenge: Shakib

Bangladesh's seasoned cricketer Shakib Al Hasan said his side would like to put its best foot forward in the upcoming one-off Test against world number one India.

"Playing a Test in India for the first time is exciting. We know it is not easy and India is number one at the moment. It will be difficult for us but that is why we play cricket -- face the challenge and do well," the all-rounder said on the sidelines of a two-day warm-up game against India A in Hyderabad on Sunday.

The Test match will be held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket stadium here from February 9.

The team needs to put up a collective effort to the best of its ability to do well against India, he added.

Observing that the Indian team is a formidable one at the moment with its spin attack, fast bowlers and batting department raising the bar, Shakib reiterated that his team needs to be at its best to make it tough for the host.

He appreciated India captain Virat Kohli and others for their performances in recent times.      He said his experience of playing in the IPL would come in handy.

Image: Shakib Al Hasan

Photograph: Getty Images