"I am not used to playing like Pujara" - Zakir Hasan on Indian legend's approach of wearing down bowling attacks

Bangladesh opener Zakir Hasan has stated that he doesn't see himself consistently playing the role Cheteshwar Pujara has played for India over many years. However, the keeper-batter asserted that he is more than capable of adopting that approach to build an innings.

Pujara has been a massive part of India's success in Test cricket over the past decade due to his dogged approach at No.3 that often sees him wearing out bowling attacks. The right-handed batter was the highest run-getter during India's maiden Test series win in Australia in 2018-19 and has performed especially well against the Aussies, at home and away.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Hasan opined that Pujara's ability is unique within his side. He also reckons the Bangladesh batsmen can adopt Pujara's methods when required.

"Obviously, it can be there. But to me that depends team-wise and the strength of your team, what is your team's strategy overall," Hasan said. "What I saw, amongst the India team those who play Tests, their role is completely different. Pujara is the only one who has that ability, and the whole team trusts his ability that he will play for a long time and tire the bowlers."

"But if you look at our team, we can also adapt to that way too. But if you ask about me, all I can say is that I am not used to playing like Pujara but ultimately if you see me playing a big innings then I need some time so I try to take as much time as I need to build my innings."

The 26-year-old had notably scored a Test hundred on debut against India and scored another half-century in the same series. He has accumulated three more half-centuries since then and averages 32.50 in seven Tests.

"They have world-class bowlers" - Zakir Hasan on Pakistan

With the Test series against Pakistan on the horizon, Zakir Hasan lauded the opposition's seamers but was quick to point out that Bangladesh are preparing for challenge. He said (as per the aforementioned source):

"If you look at the Pakistan bowlers they have always been really good... they have world-class bowlers. So if you play Test or any format against them, it will be tough and challenging to face their pace bowlers. At the same time, we are also working on that and have worked on that in the camps, and also seen the video analysis. So we have tried to take preparations accordingly."

The two-Test rubber begins on August 21 in Rawalpindi.