The Test series between Bangladesh and India is set to begin on Wednesday, September 19, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The tour consists of two Test matches followed by three T20 Internationals, promising intense competition between the two cricketing giants.
Bangladesh enters the series riding high on confidence, following a historic 2-0 Test series clean sweep over Pakistan. The team’s success against Pakistan, particularly in the Test format, has added momentum to their campaign, making them a formidable opponent for India.
Bangladesh’s best-playing XI for the first Test against India
1. Zakir Hasan (Opener)
The dynamic left-handed opener, Zakir, is known for his aggressive batting style, which can set the tone for Bangladesh’s innings. While he had a quiet series against Pakistan, his potential to dominate bowlers makes him a player to watch. Zakir can also step in as an occasional wicketkeeper, adding to his versatility.
2. Shadman Islam (Opener)
Shadman is an aggressive left-handed batter who has shown his power-hitting capabilities, particularly in clearing boundaries. He recently scored a brilliant half-century and will aim to provide a solid start for Bangladesh at the top of the order.
3. Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain)
The 26-year-old left-handed top-order batter is also Bangladesh’s captain. Najmul has a sound technique and the ability to play a variety of shots, making him a versatile player capable of adapting to different conditions. Although he didn’t score many runs against Pakistan, his captaincy during the series was commendable and will be crucial in leading the team against India.
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4. Litton Das (Wicketkeeper-Batter)
Das is a right-handed middle-order batter and one of the most reliable finishers in the Bangladesh lineup. Known for his ability to hit sixes at will, Litton’s composure in pressure situations has often turned matches in Bangladesh’s favor. He recently scored a century in a crucial Test match and will be vital in the upcoming series.
5. Mominul Haque (Middle-Order Batter)
Mominul is one of the most experienced players in the Bangladesh squad, with over 4,000 runs in Test cricket. The left-hander is known for his ability to shift gears quickly, and his powerful hitting can change the course of a match in an instant. As a proven middle-order batter, Mominul’s contribution will be key to Bangladesh’s success.
6. Shakib Al Hasan (All-Rounder)
A cricketing icon, 37-year-old Shakib is one of the best all-rounders in the history of the sport. His power hitting and left-arm off-spin bowling make him an invaluable asset for Bangladesh. Shakib’s experience and ability to perform under pressure will be critical in both the batting and bowling departments during the series.
7. Mushfiqur Rahim (Middle-Order Batter)
Mushfiqur, a veteran left-handed batter, is another cornerstone of the Bangladesh team. His ability to anchor the innings while also delivering crucial runs in the middle order makes him a formidable player. Known for his precise shot selection and adaptability, Mushfiqur will play a crucial role both as a batter and as a wicketkeeper.
8. Taskin Ahmed (Right-Arm Medium-Fast Bowler)
Taskin is a key component of Bangladesh’s pace attack. Known for his ability to bowl under pressure, Taskin’s pace and accuracy will be instrumental in breaking key Indian partnerships. His knack for delivering in high-pressure situations has made him an indispensable player for Bangladesh.
9. Hasan Mahmud (Right-Arm Fast Bowler)
Hasan is a promising right-arm fast bowler capable of generating significant pace. He has the ability to trouble opposition batters, especially in the death overs. His inclusion adds depth to Bangladesh’s pace attack, and he will be expected to take crucial wickets throughout the series.
10. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (All-Rounder, Off-Spinner)
Miraz has established himself as one of Bangladesh’s best spinners in recent years. His stellar performance in the series against Pakistan, where he took 10 wickets in just two matches, earned him the Man of the Series award. With 174 Test wickets in 45 matches, Mehidy’s spin-bowling mastery, combined with his lower-order batting prowess, makes him a crucial player for Bangladesh.
11. Taijul Islam (Left-Arm Spinner)
A specialist in Test cricket, Taijul is a left-arm spinner known for his ability to outfox batters with his web of spin. At 32 years old, Taijul has already claimed 195 wickets in just 46 matches, making him a proven match-winner. His partnership with Miraz in the spin department will be key to Bangladesh’s bowling strategy.
Key players to watch
The trio of Shakib, Mushfiqur, and Miraz stand out as the backbone of Bangladesh’s Test side. Shakib’s all-round skills, Mushfiqur’s consistent middle-order contributions, and Miraz’s ability to spin magic with the ball make them players India will have to keep a close eye on.
As Bangladesh gears up for this exciting Test series against India, their combination of experience and youthful energy makes them a side capable of challenging any opposition. The stage is set for an intense contest, with Bangladesh looking to carry forward their winning momentum and make their mark in Indian conditions.
