IND vs BAN 1st Test - Top 5 Bangladesh Players to Watch Out
Author: Vishnu Reddy
Updated At:
Bangladesh is set to tour India for a two-match Test series, marking their third bilateral series in India and their first since 2019. Fresh off a historic 2-0 Test series victory against Pakistan, Bangladesh will look to build on that success. Here are five key players who could make a difference in India.
1. Najmul Hossain Shanto
Shanto, Bangladesh’s 26-year-old captain, led the team to their first overseas Test series win in 15 years against Pakistan. His leadership was particularly impressive in managing a fast-bowling unit that excelled on foreign pitches. Appointed captain in November 2023 after a disappointing World Cup campaign, Shanto responded with a century in Sylhet, guiding Bangladesh to their first home win against New Zealand.
Though his form has dipped since March, Shanto remains the team's backbone, serving as a bridge between the veterans and the younger players. If you're looking for expert free tips on cricket betting, Shanto's leadership and the team's overall performance could be a valuable factor to consider.
2. Nahid Rana
Nahid Rana has quickly become Bangladesh’s most talked-about fast bowler. Capable of consistently bowling at 145kph, Rana has occasionally clocked 150kph, making him a genuine pace threat. His standout performance came in the second Test against Pakistan, where he claimed four wickets in the second innings, including prized scalps like Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel. Rana’s rapid rise, from his beginnings in Chapai Nawabganj to making his Test debut this year, has been a revelation for Bangladesh cricket.
3. Shadman Islam
Shadman played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s success in Pakistan, beginning with a gritty 93 in the first Test in Rawalpindi. His ability to absorb pressure from Pakistan's pace attack and support his teammates, including Mushfiqur Rahim, was key to setting the tone for the series. After a two-year absence from the Test side, Shadman made a timely comeback, stepping in for the injured Mahmudul Hasan Joy. Though his place in the Test XI isn’t yet secure, Shadman’s resilience has made him a crucial figure at the top of the order.
4. Hasan Mahmud
Hasan Mahmud, 24, delivered a breakthrough performance in Pakistan, taking his maiden five-wicket haul and becoming part of Bangladesh’s historic achievement having their fast bowlers claim all ten wickets in a Test innings for the first time. Bowling at an average speed of 135kph, Mahmud has shown the ability to swing and seam the ball. While he initially made a name for himself in white-ball cricket, his recent Test performances have cemented his spot as a key member of Bangladesh’s bowling attack.
5. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Mehidy is well-known to Indian audiences, having played all three of Bangladesh’s previous Tests in India and starring in the 2023 ODI World Cup. He has a knack for delivering in high-pressure situations, highlighted by his outstanding performances against India in a 2022 ODI series and his Player of the Series display in Pakistan.
In the Pakistan series, Mehidy scored two vital fifties and took ten wickets, including a five-wicket haul. His partnerships with Litton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim saved Bangladesh from precarious positions, underscoring his reputation as a clutch player who is slowly emerging from Shakib Al Hasan’s shadow.
If you're looking to bet on cricket, Mehidy is definitely a player to keep an eye on. His consistent performances and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset to the Bangladesh team.
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