Bangladesh pacer Rubel Hossain determined to impress in ODIs

Rubel Hossain

Dhaka, June 12 (IANS) Pacer Rubel Hossain admitted his disappointment after being left out of Bangladesh's Test team against India but said it has made him more determined to put in a stellar performance in the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series, beginning June 18.

Rubel, according to coach Chandika Hathurusingha, was rested to keep him fresh and fit for the ODIs after he had a gruelling series against Pakistan. Bangladesh are currently playing India in a one-off Test match.

"Bangladesh does not get to play too many Tests, so obviously I am a little disappointed to miss out. But there's nothing I can do now. All I am looking forward to is the ODI series," Rubel was quoted as saying by the dailystar.net on Friday.

"I want to be completely ready and match-fit by the time the ODIs begin. I really want to put in a good performance against India."

Asked about his fitness, the 25-year-old said: "I am good at the moment. I have recovered."

"There's nothing to worry, I won't say that I am not fully fit, but for a Test match one needs to have an extra amount of preparation," he explained.

Rubel is also hopeful he will feature in the longest format of the game when South Africa arrive in Bangladesh barely two weeks after India's tour.

"I wasn't selected for the Test match, but it's not as though I don't see a future for myself in this format of the game. I already have the South Africa Tests in my mind and I am going to do everything I can to be completely ready for that," said the pacer.