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After their historic win against Pakistan, Bangladesh landed in Chennai on Sunday with renewed confidence for their upcoming Test series in India. With the successful completion of one-half of their South Asian mission—winning a Test series in Pakistan—Najmul Hossain Shanto’s side now looks forward to taking on India. This team has shown they can surpass expectations, and India will need to be cautious in the two-match series, which kicks off at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Thursday.
Fighting Spirit in Bangladesh
Bangladesh showed incredible resilience in their recent series against Pakistan, especially during the second Test in Rawalpindi. At one point, they were in deep trouble, struggling at 26-6 while chasing Pakistan’s first-innings total of 274. However, they made a remarkable comeback. Even in the first Test, Bangladesh never backed down and went on to win by 10 wickets after Pakistan declared their first innings at 448-6.
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Bangladesh Team arrive in Chennai for the first Test of their ICC WTC series against India.#BCB #Cricket #BDCricket #Bangladesh #INDvsBAN pic.twitter.com/wBwapu3jep
— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) September 15, 2024
A similar display of determination will be needed for Bangladesh to succeed in Chennai. Shanto has made it clear that the team’s goal is to play well throughout the five days of the match, with the hope of getting a positive result in the final session. “We aim to perform consistently for all five days. We want to be in a position where the match can go in any direction in the final session. It’s a big opportunity for us, and we’re playing to win,” said Shanto before the team left Dhaka.
It’s worth remembering that Bangladesh gave India a tough fight in the second match of their two-game series at home in December 2022.
Spin Power of Bangladesh
India might reconsider their plans to offer a spin-friendly pitch at Chepauk, given Bangladesh’s strength in spin bowling. With Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Taijul Islam leading their spin attack, Bangladesh boasts a potent trio that could thrive in favorable conditions.
Though their pace attack isn’t as strong, they’ll take heart from their performance in the second Test against Pakistan, where their fast bowlers took all 10 wickets in the second innings. Shanto acknowledged that while their pace bowlers may lack experience compared to India’s, their spin attack is on par. “Our pacers might not have as much experience, but our spinners are close to theirs. We are confident in both spin and pace. We’ll give 100%,” Shanto assured, though they will miss the services of injured left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam.
Experience on Bangladesh’s Side
In critical moments, Bangladesh can rely on seasoned players like Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Most of the team’s core players have played enough matches to handle high-pressure situations. “Our success will come if we play as a team. Everyone must contribute together. I have high hopes for Shakib—he’s in good form with the ball,” Shanto commented.
Moreover, many of these players are familiar with Indian conditions, having participated in the 2023 ODI World Cup match against New Zealand, which should boost their confidence as they prepare for this tough contest.
Also Read: 2 Players Who Were A Part Of World Cup As A Player And Umpire