Gilchrist is looking forward to the series

Many former Australian Test stars have criticised what is expected to be a severely lopsided contest.

Australia are the current world champions and lead the Test Championship.

Bangladesh have lost 18 of their 19 Tests, 13 of them by an innings.

There's no doubt they'll benefit from the experience even if it's an absolute thrashing Gilchrist on Bangladesh

But Gilchrist said: "People will look at the series and say it's going to be a write-off, that we're going to not only win but smash them.

"There's no doubt they'll benefit from the experience, whether it's an absolute thrashing or if they really surprise everyone and do well.

"Win, lose or draw, it will be a lesson for them, a step forward for them to play against what's perceived to be the best team in the world."

Bangladesh have not won a Test since gaining full membership of the International Cricket Council in 2000.

Their best result was a rain-enforced draw against Zimbabwe.

Full itinerary: Aus v Bangladesh

Australia have not lost a home Test series since losing to the West Indies in 1992-93.

Australia will host Bangladesh in two Tests, giving the far northern cities of Darwin and Cairns Test status for the first time, and three limited-overs internationals in July.