DHAKA, Oct 24, 2024 (BSS) - Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz said he relished the tough situation and tried to equip him with all the necessary ingredients to combat such a situation.

"I bat at such a position where most of the time I need to deal with tough situation but I always try to enjoy it. I don't think too much and only think that if I can do well in that position, there will be a chance to be a hero," he said here today.

Miraz was the only shining spot in Bangladesh's disappointing seven-wicket defeat to South Africa in the first cricket Test.

Bangladesh could have sensed a victory despite conceding 202-run lead if other batters were able to come up with support for him.

The hosts were bowled out for 106 in the first innings and South Africa replied with 308 all out. 

But Miraz helped the side wipe out the huge deficit and ended the fear of innings defeat. He missed his well-deserved ton by being dismissed for 97 after failing to deal with the second new ball.

His stubborn knock however earned Bangladesh a 105-run lead. 

Miraz said he has been practicing hard to learn the art of dealing with the new ball. In Test cricket, after the first new ball, the second new ball is taken after 80 overs. At that time, the lower or lower middle order is expected to bat and for them dealing with a new ball is always tougher. 

"I have been practicing hard since I have to bat against new ball sometimes, especially after 80 overs," he said.

"It is important to ready myself as I need to bat with the lower order. It is imperative to survive in international cricket. The thing is not that it is just a matter of surviving but how to score runs, dominate a bowler, and understand the bowler's mindset. I share things with experienced players in our team and they share with me too."