The West Indies are set to host Bangladesh for the first Test of their two-match bilateral series, starting on Friday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua. The match is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM Bangladesh time.
Bangladesh enters the Caribbean following a 2-1 ODI series defeat to Afghanistan. Despite recent setbacks, including a home Test series loss to South Africa, the Tigers have shown flashes of brilliance, notably their remarkable Test victory against Pakistan. However, inconsistency remains a significant issue. To make an impact against a formidable West Indies side, Bangladesh will need to perform at their best.
In their recent two-match Test series against South Africa, Bangladesh suffered a 0-2 defeat, highlighting their struggles in the Test format. Improvement in both batting and bowling will be crucial if they are to stand a chance in this series.
The team faces additional challenges with Mehidy Hasan Miraz stepping in as captain due to Najmul Hossain Shanto's groin injury. The absence of veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim, due to a shoulder issue, further depletes the team's experience and leadership. Mehidy will need to make astute decisions to balance the playing XI as the team adapts to these changes in a pivotal series.
While Bangladesh boasts an exciting group of pacers, it was their batting that let them down against South Africa. The core batting trio of Mushfiqur Rahim, Mominul Haque, and Litton Das are all in the latter stages of their careers, and it is likely that Shakib Al Hasan has played his last Test. Najmul Hossain Shanto, who has yet to build on his early career success, is also out of this tour due to injury.
Both teams are languishing at the bottom of the World Test Championship table. The West Indies have won only one of their nine Test matches in the current cycle, sitting last with a PCT of 18.52. Bangladesh has fared slightly better, winning three out of their 10 Tests with a PCT of 27.50. Nevertheless, on home soil, the West Indies are heavily favoured to win the opening Test.
