- Tue, March 15, 2022
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The cricketing world is set for an enthralling showdown as West Indies host Bangladesh for a two-match Test series starting November 22, 2024. This series, part of the ICC World Test Championship, promises to deliver high-stakes action with both teams showcasing emerging talents and established stars. Here's a detailed preview of the squads, schedule, and everything you need to know about this much-anticipated series.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a dynamic squad featuring a blend of seasoned players and rising stars. Kraigg Brathwaite, the dependable opener, continues to lead the side, with Joshua Da Silva as his deputy. One of the highlights is the inclusion of Justin Greaves, who has impressed with his stellar domestic form in the CG United Super50 Cup.
However, the team faces a setback as all-rounder Jason Holder is ruled out due to a shoulder injury. The spin department sees the return of Kevin Sinclair, while pace stalwarts like Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph will spearhead the bowling attack.
The home advantage could play a decisive role for the West Indies, with the Antigua and Jamaica pitches historically favoring their seamers. The team’s familiarity with these conditions gives them an edge, particularly in leveraging their experienced pacers.
Anticipation is high for performances from Kraigg Brathwaite, a proven Test match performer, and the emerging talents like Keacy Carty and Justin Greaves, who have shown promise in domestic competitions. The batting lineup will aim to set substantial totals, providing their bowlers with the cushion to attack Bangladesh’s lineup.
The visiting team faces a challenging start as senior players Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto are unavailable due to injuries. This marks the first Test series in 16 years where Bangladesh will be without the trio of Mushfiqur, Shakib Al Hasan, and Tamim Iqbal.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz steps in as captain, leading a squad that includes a mix of experienced players and young prospects. Shahadat Hossain, the 22-year-old top-order batter, replaces Shanto and aims to make an impact in the absence of seasoned campaigners.
Bangladesh’s preparations have been hampered by key injuries to senior players. Mushfiqur Rahim, a veteran with over 90 Tests under his belt, has been sidelined due to a finger injury and persistent shoulder issues. Najmul Hossain Shanto, who has been instrumental in the team’s top order, is also out due to a groin strain.
This situation leaves Mehidy Hasan Miraz with the responsibility of leading a relatively inexperienced side. The absence of stalwarts like Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, and Mushfiqur Rahim adds to the challenge for the visitors, forcing them to rely on their younger players and emerging talents.
Shahadat Hossain, brought in as a replacement for Shanto, will aim to grab this opportunity after moderate performances in the domestic circuit. The team’s management will also depend on Litton Das to stabilize the middle order and provide leadership on the field.
Despite the injuries, Bangladesh remains a formidable opponent, with recent successes in international cricket bolstering their confidence. The visitors will focus on consistent performances from their top-order batters, including Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Mominul Haque, who have experience in grinding out runs in challenging conditions.
The return of Litton Das brings stability, while Jaker Ali and Mahidul Islam Ankon add depth to the squad. However, the visitors will need to address their tendency to falter in key moments, particularly against pace and swing.
The series begins with the first Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua and concludes with the second Test at Sabina Park, Jamaica. Following the red-ball games, the teams will compete in three ODIs and three T20Is across various venues.
Both teams come armed with formidable bowling attacks. The West Indies' arsenal includes the experienced Kemar Roach, backed by young pacers Jayden Seales and Anderson Phillip. Spin options like Jomel Warrican and Kevin Sinclair add variety to the attack, which will be crucial in combating Bangladesh's left-right batting combinations.
For Bangladesh, the pace department, led by Taskin Ahmed, has shown promise in recent series. Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud are expected to support Taskin in exploiting any movement on Caribbean pitches. The spin duo of Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam, along with the addition of uncapped left-arm spinner Hasan Murad, gives the visitors a well-rounded attack to challenge the West Indies' batting lineup.
With the series set to kick off on November 22, fans are eagerly awaiting the clash between these two competitive squads. The outcomes of these matches will not only influence their positions in the ICC World Test Championship but also set the tone for their future campaigns in red-ball cricket.
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