Markram and Harmer call Bangladesh their toughest test yet as South Africa stay wary at home

South Africa batter Aiden Markram sees Bangladesh as a tough opponent in the upcoming series on South African soil. In his view, Bangladesh have become a far more mature and balanced side than before, so the hosts must stay wary of the Tigers even at home.

Bangladesh were once known as a spin-dependent team. In recent times, however, their batters have improved at handling pace and bounce, and their pace attack has also improved significantly. It is this change in Bangladesh that Markram is emphasising.

In an interview with SuperSport, Markram said Bangladesh naturally play spin very well and have some excellent spinners in their side. But their batters are now also proving they can handle pace and bounce, and they have bowlers who can bowl fast and in the right areas in pace-friendly conditions.

Markram added that Bangladesh are now a much more balanced team overall, and they proved that in Australia. He has no doubt they will arrive in South Africa with the same mindset. South Africa will have to give their best, he said, and he expects a tough series.

South Africa spinner Simon Harmer is also wary of Bangladesh's improvement. In his eyes, the current side could be the toughest opponent among all the Bangladesh teams he has played against so far.

According to Harmer, Bangladesh have quality pacers, spinners and batters in their side. There is therefore no room to take the opponent lightly.

Bangladesh are in South Africa to play two Tests, three one-day internationals and three Twenty20 matches. In Proteas conditions, this series is a big test for Bangladesh.

In particular, after losing the home Test series against the West Indies, Najmul Hossain Shanto's team will face the challenge of doing well against South Africa.