Bangladesh is set to face New Zealand on their home soil in the inaugural match of the two-Test series, commencing on November 28, 2023, at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium. With the standard start time of 9:00 AM IST, the Bangladesh squad, under the interim captaincy of Najmul Hossain Shanto due to Shakib Al Hasan’s absence, will confront the 2021 World Test champions.
As the two teams mark the beginning of their journey in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 cycle, they bring distinct pre-series experiences to the fore. New Zealand, riding high on their semi-final performance in the ODI World Cup 2023, aims to replicate their success despite a shift to the Test format, a variant of the game presenting unique challenges and requiring a different strategic approach.
The players will step onto a pitch known for its assistance to spinners, with a historical average first-innings score of 282 at the venue. It suggests that mounting a sizeable total upon winning the toss and batting first could be crucial in setting the game’s tone.
Weather forecasts predict moderate playing conditions with temperatures hovering around 26 degrees Celsius and relative humidity at 49 percent, suggesting spin could play a significant role as the match progresses.
Bangladesh looks to capitalize on its familiarity with the home conditions, fielding a potential playing XI that includes Shadman Islam, Najmul Hossain Shanto as captain, Zakir Hasan as the wicket-keeper, Mominul Haque, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Khaled Ahmed, and Taijul Islam.
The New Zealand side, led by Tim Southee, presents a formidable lineup with Devon Conway, Will Young, the accomplished Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell coming off strong ODI World Cup performances, Rachin Ravindra, wicketkeeper Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, the left-arm spin of Ajaz Patel, Mitchell Santner, and pace spearhead Neil Wagner.
In the realm of fantasy cricket, smart picks for the Bangladesh versus New Zealand encounter would include Tom Latham, who has demonstrated exceptional skill against spin, and Kane Williamson, whose expertise on subcontinental pitches is well-documented. Daryl Mitchell’s recent form and experience on Indian pitches could translate well in these conditions.
Mushfiqur Rahim’s composure and Shanto’s leadership and batting skills will be pivotal for Bangladesh. Similarly, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra’s transition from ODI to Test cricket will be under scrutiny, while off-spinning all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz is tipped to make significant contributions with both bat and ball.
For bowlers, Shoriful Islam, with his recent ODI World Cup performance, along with New Zealand’s experienced pace duo of Southee and Wagner, and left-arm spinner Santner, could be the go-to options for fantasy team managers.
While Kane Williamson’s proficiency against spin makes him a favorite for the captaincy in the fantasy realm, Mitchell Santner’s versatility as a left-arm spinner earns him the role of vice-captain, as his skills are expected to disturb the Bangladesh batting lineup and accrue fantasy points.
As both teams prepare for the head-to-head clash in the longer format, fans of cricket and fantasy sports alike are eager to see how the strategies and selections play out in what promises to be a gripping Test series.
The anticipation for the Sylhet showdown builds up, with every run, wicket, and moment poised to carve the early narratives of this edition of the World Test Championship.
Stay connected for the most recent updates on the World Cup 2023, and don’t miss any action from the upcoming Bangladesh versus New Zealand Test match.