"Only rain can save Bangladesh" - Basit Ali on Pakistan's upcoming home Test series

Former cricketer Basit Ali is optimistic about Pakistan claiming a one-sided victory in their upcoming two-match home Test series against Bangladesh. He opined that rain could be the only respite for the visitors.

Basit pointed out that the Shan Masood-led side are likely to dominate Bangladesh, given the home advantage. He also pointed out that Pakistan have even tasted success against the opposition in Bangladesh as well.

Speaking in his latest YouTube video, the 53-year-old said (from 2:48):

"Only rain can save Bangladesh, otherwise, there is no comparison. Pakistan will have a big advantage in the home conditions. Pakistan have also beaten Bangladesh in Tests in Bangaldesh."

The first Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi from August 21. The second and final Test is scheduled to be played at the National Stadium in Karachi from August 30.

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"If Gillespie tries to implement the Australian mindset within the Pakistan team, it will be a big mistake" - Basit Ali

Former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie was appointed the head coach of Pakistan's Test team earlier this year. The upcoming two-match Test series will be his first assignment with the Men in Green.

Basit Ali emphasized that Gillespie should not try to make the Pakistani players play with an Australian mindset. Speaking about the team's new Test coach, the cricketer-turned-expert remarked in the same video (from 3:20):

"Pakistan have roped in Australia's Jason Gillespie. It remains to be seen if we will play with an Australian mindset or not. If Gillespie tries to implement the Australian mindset within the Pakistan team, it will be a big mistake."

The home series against Bangladesh will be crucial for Pakistan as they look to claim some valuable points in the ongoing World Test Championship 2023-2025 cycle. They are placed fifth in the points table with two wins and three losses from five outings. Their Points Percentage System (PCT) stands at 36.66.