The surface at MA Chidambaram Stadium traditionally offers turns as the match progresses, and both teams will look to capitalise on their spin options
Cricket fans eagerly await the start of the two-match test series between India and Bangladesh, set to begin on Thursday, September 19, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both teams will be hungry for maximum points to solidify their standings in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC). After whitewashing PAK 2-0 on their home turf, Bangladesh comes in brimming with confidence. Meanwhile, India, fresh off a 4-1 series win against England, is eager to maintain its momentum. As the test series approaches, four bowlers are predicted to shine.
India vs Bangladesh: 5 records Ravichandran Ashwin could break in Test series#Ashwin #INDvsBAN https://t.co/i1k06rN4bX pic.twitter.com/ehyXkPnnKj
— CricketNDTV (@CricketNDTV) September 16, 2024
Ravichandran Ashwin is widely esteemed as one of the finest spinners from India, as his impressive statistics undeniably demonstrate his profound impact on the game of cricket today. He is currently the second-highest wicket-taker for India in international cricket, and he sits at the top of the test bowling rankings. With 23 wickets against Bangladesh in just six test matches, Ashwin is not merely a bowler but a tactical genius. His variations and deep understanding of the game make him a menace to any batting lineup. Playing on his home turf in Chennai, where spin will likely dominate, Ashwin's performance could be a series-defining factor.
Timber Striker Alert 🚨
— BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2024
A Jasprit Bumrah special 🎯 🔥
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Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/X85JZGt0EV#TeamIndia | #INDvENG | @Jaspritbumrah93 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/U9mpYkYp6v
Jasprit Bumrah, India's pace spearhead, is back in action after being rested for the white-ball tours and the Duleep Trophy. His last test series saw him play four matches against England, where he picked up 19 wickets at an average of 16.89, finishing as the third-highest wicket-taker. The dual ability of Bumrah to swing the ball and his knack for delivering at critical junctures pose a formidable challenge to Bangladesh's batting order. Having been rested in recent months to prepare for the packed test schedule, Bumrah will be raring to go in this series, aiming to carry his momentum forward from his previous performances.
Shakib Al Hasan: 242 wickets @ 31.31
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) September 17, 2024
Taijul Islam: 195 wickets @ 31.92
Mehidy Hasan Miraz: 174 wickets @ 32.72
Nayeem Hasan: 36 wickets @ 27.47
Is Bangladesh's Test spin attack the best to visit India in the 21st century? 🤔
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Shakib Al Hasan is not just a senior player for Bangladesh but also one of the most versatile all-rounders in test cricket. In his 12 innings against India, Shakib has claimed 21 wickets, including a five-wicket haul and a memorable seven-wicket match haul back in 2010. His experience with both bat and ball makes him a pivotal figure in Bangladesh's lineup. While Shakib's bowling average against India stands at 37.95, his ability to perform in key moments could trouble India's strong batting lineup. He also brings a wealth of experience, having picked up 241 wickets in his illustrious test career.
A brilliant series with bat and ball for Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who won the Player of the Series award 🎖#WTC25 | #PAKvBAN pic.twitter.com/IVHUJVvqyL
— ICC (@ICC) September 3, 2024
Mehidy Hasan Miraz quickly establishes himself as a force to reckon with in Bangladesh's bowling lineup. The bowling all-rounder recently delivered a standout performance against PAK, where he was named Player of the Series for his five-wicket haul and two half-centuries. Mehidy has proven to be a reliable option for Bangladesh, with his off-spin bowling adding variety to their attack. In tests, he has already claimed 174 wickets and is closing in on the 2000 runs and 200 wickets milestone. His ability to break partnerships and contribute with the bat lower down the order makes him a vital asset for Bangladesh in this series.
With conditions in Chennai likely to favour spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mehidy Hasan Miraz could enjoy significant success in this series. The surface at MA Chidambaram Stadium traditionally offers turns as the match progresses, and both teams will look to capitalise on their spin options. While spinners may steal the spotlight, fast bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah will still have a crucial role to play, particularly in the early overs with the new ball. With Shakib Al Hasan's all-round capabilities adding balance to Bangladesh's attack, the stage is set for an intense battle between bat and ball.