Bangladesh is riding high on confidence after their historic 2-0 Test series win against Pakistan, heading into a challenging two-match Test series against India starting on September 19, 2024, in Chennai. This will be followed by the second Test in Kanpur, starting on September 27. Despite their recent success, Bangladesh is fully aware of the daunting challenge that lies ahead, particularly as they have never beaten India in a Test match.
Shanto, who captained Bangladesh to their first-ever Test series victory over Pakistan, emphasized that his team is determined to play for a win in both Test matches. “We will aim to play to win both matches. What matters most is the process, and if we do our job properly, good results are possible,” Shanto remarked before departing for India.
Bangladesh’s recent win against Pakistan has instilled a sense of belief and extra confidence in the team. Shanto acknowledged that while the Indian team holds a far superior ranking and greater experience, the Bangladesh team is focused on executing their strategies and staying competitive until the final day of the matches.
In terms of match preparation, Shanto highlighted that their bowling unit, especially their spinners, will play a key role in challenging India on home turf. Although Bangladesh’s pacers may lack the experience of India’s seamers, their spin department is seen as more evenly matched. With both pace and spin departments being in “good frame,” Shanto is optimistic that they can pose a serious threat.
Historically, Bangladesh has struggled against India in Test cricket, having lost 11 out of the 13 matches played between the two sides, with two draws. Their last encounter in 2022 was a dramatic one, with India narrowly escaping defeat thanks to a heroic partnership between Ravichandran Ashwin and Shreyas Iyer.
This time, however, Bangladesh is determined to break that streak and is motivated by their recent success. Their victory over Pakistan, which saw them become only the second team after England to whitewash Pakistan in a Test series in their home country, has given them a psychological edge and a hunger to compete fiercely against India.
Shanto also emphasized that Bangladesh’s approach will be to play solid cricket for all five days of the Test matches. “If we play well throughout, there’s a chance that we can be in a position to win in the final session of the match,” he said, indicating their intent to remain in contention until the very end.
As part of the 2023-2025 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, this series is significant for both teams. India is currently leading the WTC standings, while Bangladesh ranks fourth. For Bangladesh, this series provides an opportunity to climb higher in the rankings, while India will aim to consolidate their top spot.
After the conclusion of the two-Test series, India and Bangladesh will also compete in a three-match T20I series starting on October 6, 2024. This will provide another opportunity for both teams to test their bench strength, with some players like Shubman Gill likely to be rested for the T20Is in preparation for India’s subsequent series against New Zealand.
For now, all eyes are on the Test series, where Bangladesh, under Shanto’s leadership, hopes to achieve the unthinkable: a historic Test win over India on their home soil. However, the journey will not be easy, as India, known for their formidable record at home, will be a tough nut to crack.
This upcoming series promises to be a thrilling battle, with Bangladesh eager to prove themselves as a competitive force in world cricket.