Post-ODI World Cup fervor, the cricketing world’s gaze now redirects to the longer format as Bangladesh and New Zealand prepare to square off in a two-match Test series commencing on November 28, a Tuesday. In the wake of a disheartening ODI World Cup, which saw Bangladesh suffer significant setbacks, the Tigers are eager to pivot to the realm of red-ball cricket under a new captain, imbibed with a renewed sense of determination. Conversely, New Zealand’s campaign was cut short at the semifinals, as they succumbed to a potent Indian side. Both teams, however, are keen to commence their World Test Championship endeavors on a high note.
The inaugural clash of the series will unfold at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium—a venue with only one Test match in its ledger. This arena witnessed Bangladesh’s defeat at the hands of Zimbabwe in 2018, exacting a six-year gap to this upcoming fixture. The host nation rests its hopes on Najmul Hossain Shanto, who steps up as the 13th Test captain in their history, given Shakib Al Hasan’s absence owing to a finger injury. Litton Das, originally appointed as vice-captain, will also be missed in this series. Despite these challenges, the Bangladeshi side remains a formidable opponent on home turf, though a victory over New Zealand in their own backyard remains elusive.
Intriguingly, Bangladesh’s last tour to the Land of the Long White Cloud culminated in a remarkable eight-wicket triumph—an outlier in an otherwise New Zealand-dominated head-to-head record, consisting of 13 victories against a solitary loss in 17 Test encounters.
The schedule for the eagerly anticipated series is as follows:
1st Test – November 28 – December 2 at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet – 9 AM IST
2nd Test – December 6 – December 10 at Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka – 9 AM IST
The Bangladesh squad congregates with an amalgamation of experience and emerging talent. Key figures such as Mushfiqur Rahim will bring much-needed stability, as they join forces with the likes of Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mominul Haque, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. The team’s resilience will be further bolstered by the skills of Taijul Islam and the pace battery comprising Hasan Mahmud and Shoriful Islam.
The New Zealand contingent, led by the seasoned Tim Southee, packs a potent mix of grit and skill. With a line-up featuring Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, and the astute Kane Williamson, they are equipped to navigate the rigors of the five-day format. Support in the form of Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, and the versatile Mitchell Santner ensures depth in both batting and bowling departments. The addition of Ajaz Patel and Kyle Jamieson could spell trouble for the Bangladeshi batsmen, promising a riveting contest of bat and ball.
Cricket enthusiasts in India will need to turn to the digital realm, as live telecasts remain unobtainable. However, fervor for the game can find its fix through live streams accessible on the Fancode platform.
With both teams on the cusp of rewriting their narratives in the Test arena, the stage is set for a transfixing clash of grit, prowess, and tactical acumen. Each player carries not just the weight of the bat and ball, but also the legacies and hopes of their nations.
As we eagerly await the first day’s play, expect to see determination in the eyes of the Tigers and astuteness in the steps of the Black Caps. This is more than just a series; it’s a testament to the unyielding spirit of cricket that continues to captivate hearts worldwide.