Najmul Hossain Shanto said his men were focused on the challenge of South Africa rather than their missing all-rounder Shakib al Hasan ahead of Monday's first Test in Mirpur.

The absence of Shakib Al Hasan has come as a relief to South Africa as they embark on a two-test series in Bangladesh but stand-in captain Aiden Markram does not expect the challenge to be any easier.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasizes the team's focus on South Africa in the absence of Shakib al Hasan for the upcoming Test series. Bangladesh will also adjust to interim coach Phil Simmons after Chandika Hathurusingha's suspension for alleged misconduct,