Posted: September 16, 2024
The Bangladesh cricket team, led by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, arrived in Chennai on Sunday for the highly anticipated Test series against India. Accompanying Shanto were key players including fast bowler Taskin Ahmed, wicketkeeper Litton Das and all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, as well as the entire squad and support staff.
This series marks a significant moment for Bangladesh.A historic Test series win over Pakistan secured a 2-0 whitewash, including a 10-wicket win in the first Test and a 6-wicket win in the second Test. This success has given the team added confidence as they face a strong Indian side in two Tests and three T20Is.
The first Test is scheduled to begin in Chennai on September 19, while the second Test is scheduled to be played in Kanpur on September 27. Bangladesh’s recent form, combined with the challenge of playing India on home soil, sets the stage for an exciting contest.
At a pre-departure press conference in Dhaka, Najmul acknowledged the difficulties of the upcoming series but expressed optimism considering Bangladesh’s recent performances.
“It’s going to be a challenging series, but we gained more confidence from the Pakistan series. I think the whole country now shares that confidence. Every series is an opportunity. We want to win both Tests, but we have to stick to the process. If we do our best, we will achieve good results,” the Bangladesh captain said.
Shanto also spoke about Bangladesh’s ambitions to achieve their first Test victory in India, focusing on disciplined performances over five days.
“Our target is to perform well over the five days of each Test. We aim to get a result in the final session when the game could go either way. This is our chance to get our first win in India. We “But we have to focus on making the most of our strengths over the five days,” he added.
One of Bangladesh’s strengths is their versatile bowling attack. Shanto emphasized this point, pointing out that both Bangladesh’s spinners and pacers can make an impact.
“Our bowling attack is in a good position both in terms of spin and pace. Our pacers may not have the experience of India, but our spin attack is close to them. They can bowl in any conditions. All I can say is this: our pacers, spinners and batsmen will give their 100%.”
With India ranked higher than Bangladesh, the series promises to be a stern test. However, the recent form of the Bangladesh national team has raised expectations that they can challenge India on Indian soil as well. As the countdown to the first Test begins, all eyes will be on Chennai to see how the action unfolds.
