Shanto focuses on one Test at a time as Bangladesh target WTC progress

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto wants his team to concentrate on the immediate challenge of facing West Indies rather than become distracted by calculations about reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Bangladesh begin the first of two Tests in Mirpur today (Wednesday), with the series offering an opportunity to strengthen their position in the WTC standings. The Tigers are currently fourth, with six matches remaining in the cycle.

"I am thinking only about this Test match, not even the two-match series," Shanto told reporters on Tuesday.

The captain believes the bigger objective will take care of itself if Bangladesh continue to win matches and execute their plans consistently. Rather than change their approach because of the stakes, he wants the players to trust the preparation and methods that have brought progress in the longest format.

Shanto also sees the prospect of reaching the WTC final as a source of motivation, not pressure. Bangladesh have shown encouraging signs in recent Tests, including a victory in Australia, although an innings defeat against Zimbabwe and a draw against Afghanistan have underlined the need for greater consistency.

The captain acknowledged that Bangladesh have not completely overcome their tendency to struggle in difficult situations. However, he believes the team has improved in handling pressure and can make further progress by addressing its remaining weaknesses.

"You can expect this team to improve by another 20 to 30 per cent from where we are now, Inshallah," he said.

Shanto also made clear that the team are not satisfied with what they have achieved so far. The growing interest in Test cricket in Bangladesh is encouraging, but he wants that interest to be matched by better performances and results.

The home series comes amid a challenging period for the team management. Batting coach Mohammad Ashraful has been reassigned, while fast bowler Nahid Rana has been ruled out of the West Indies Tests with a labrum tear. Veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim also suffered a hand injury during practice on Tuesday, leaving his condition under assessment ahead of the opener.

Taskin Ahmed's return provides a boost to the pace attack, while Bangladesh will hope to make full use of home conditions in Mirpur.

For Shanto, the route towards the WTC final begins with getting the immediate task right.