Pakistan counting on pace bowlers to dominate Bangladesh

Pakistan's confidence is boosted by Bangladesh appearing vulnerable without Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan for the first test starting on Friday.

Mushfiqur withdrew from the test because of security concerns, while allrounder Shakib is suspended.

Pakistan captain Azhar Ali said on Thursday they must reap the advantage at Pindi Cricket Stadium.

"Test matches are always played on your strength and at the moment we feel our fast bowling is our strength," Azhar said.

"They are missing a couple of key players and on current form we can say we have an upper hand. You take advantage in your home conditions."
"Even though they don't have senior players, they have (other) players who can give match-winning performances. We have to not give them a chance."
"(Our) expectation is we are going to play good cricket here. We are not good enough overseas, so we have to try to improve ourselves here."