Bangladesh’s Test Hopes Rise After Pakistan Sweep, but India Awaits

AFP/APP

Chennai: Fresh from their historic Test series win over Pakistan, Bangladesh are aiming to make more cricket history as they prepare to face India in a two-Test series starting Thursday in Chennai.

The 2-0 sweep against Pakistan marked Bangladesh’s first-ever Test series victory over their regional rivals, sparking celebrations across the country just a month after political upheaval and protests led to the ousting of their former premier.

However, a series in India presents a more formidable challenge. Bangladesh has yet to win a Test match against India in their 13 previous encounters, losing 11 and drawing just two. Both draws were on home soil, in Chittagong in 2007 and Fatullah in 2015.

“This will be a challenging series for us,” said visiting skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto. “But after our strong performance against Pakistan, there is a heightened sense of confidence within the team and across the country.”

India will be heavy favorites to win the series, but Bangladesh’s experienced players, including Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, enter the contest in good form. Mushfiqur amassed 216 runs in the Pakistan series, while off-spinner Mehidy was the leading bowler, taking 10 wickets.

Political tensions continue to cast a shadow over the series. Shakib, 37, a former lawmaker from the ousted ruling party of ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina, faces legal troubles, accused of culpability in the police killing of protesters during the unrest.

Despite these challenges, he rejoined his national teammates after a stint playing county cricket for Surrey in England. “As for Shakib, I am hopeful that he will do well,” Najmul added. “He has been in good form with the ball.”

Bangladesh’s fast-bowling department received a boost in Pakistan with the emergence of Nahid Rana, who impressed with his pace, clocking speeds over 146 kph (90 mph). Meanwhile, uncapped wicketkeeper Jaker Ali joins the squad, replacing injured fast bowler Shoriful Islam, who pulled out due to a groin injury.