Historically, Bangladesh has struggled against India in test matches
The two-match test series between India and Bangladesh will kick off with the opener slated for September 19 at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The second test will follow on September 27 at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. India has historically dominated this fixture, winning 11 out of the 13 encounters, with the other two ending in draws. Despite never defeating India in a test, Bangladesh is not to be underestimated. Fresh off a historic test win against PAK in Rawalpindi, Bangladesh has momentum on their side. Let's explore four players who could trouble India in this crucial series.
Mushfiqur Rahim's first Test ton against Pakistan keeps things even at Rawalpindi 💯https://t.co/xz4BFLQVGD | #PAKvBAN pic.twitter.com/vwosOMJve7
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 24, 2024
Mushfiqur Rahim has been a bedrock of Bangladesh's middle order for over a decade, and his recent form only reinforces that status. His match-winning knock of 191 in the first test, which included 22 boundaries and a six, was instrumental in Bangladesh's historic victory in Rawalpindi. He was rightly awarded the Man of the Match for his stellar performance. A veteran of 89 tests, Mushfiqur has accumulated 5,867 runs, including 11 centuries, 31 fifties, and three double centuries. His experience and ability to anchor innings will be vital against India's strong bowling attack. With the ability to grind out long innings, Mushfiqur could frustrate India and build the foundation for Bangladesh's batting success.
Pakistan 🆚 Bangladesh | Test Series
— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) September 3, 2024
Player of the Series
Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh | 155 runs & 10 Wickets
PC: PCB#BCB #Cricket #BDCricket #Bangladesh #PAKvBAN #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/n1mkLr3GZ3
Mehidy Hasan Miraz has emerged as a pivotal player for Bangladesh, especially with his stellar all-round performance against PAK. His contribution of 77 runs and five wickets in the first Rawalpindi test made him a significant threat to India. In the second test, he further impressed by taking another five wickets, showcasing his consistent match-winning ability. Mehidy's adaptability in spin-friendly Indian conditions only adds to his potency. With 1,547 runs and 169 wickets in test cricket, including multiple five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket match hauls, Mehidy's experience and versatility make him Bangladesh's trump card. His efforts also earned him the Man of the Series award, and if he maintains his form, India's dominance in the series could face a serious challenge.
- 2-0 against West Indies, 2009
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) September 3, 2024
- 1-0 against Zimbabwe, 2021
- 2-0 against Pakistan, 2024
Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim had a role to play in each of Bangladesh's Test series wins overseas 🤝 https://t.co/uNC4PZ5Y4g #PAKvBAN pic.twitter.com/KAlZ25f6R1
Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's most experienced player, is another key figure who could impact the India series. He took four wickets in the first Rawalpindi test and scored 15 runs. Shakib added 23 runs in the second test and claimed one wicket with an impressive economy rate of 2.00. Known for his ability to contribute both with the bat and ball, Shakib's vast experience will be crucial. In his illustrious test career, Shakib has amassed 4,520 runs, including five hundred and a double century, while picking up 241 wickets with 19 five-wicket hauls. His all-round prowess makes him a double-edged sword. Shakib's tactical acumen and match-winning abilities could prove pivotal if Bangladesh hopes to secure their first-ever test win over India.
Nahid Rana with figures of 3⃣-1⃣2⃣ in 3 overs as Pakistan are languishing at 81-6 #PAKvsBAN #test pic.twitter.com/boQnzum6c1
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) September 2, 2024
Nahid Rana, Bangladesh's new pace sensation, has made headlines with his blistering speed and impressive test debut against Sri Lanka. The 21-year-old bowler consistently bowls at over 150 kph and played a crucial role in Bangladesh's 2-0 test series win over PAK. Rana's standout performance came with figures of 4/44 in the second innings of the Rawalpindi test. His ability to maintain speed and control makes him a valuable asset. If Rana can continue his rise, he could unsettle India's top order with his raw pace and growing skill set.