The stage is set as Chepauk Stadium in Chennai gets ready to host the first Test match between India and Bangladesh, with expectations running high. India last played Bangladesh in December 2022 and will face their neighbors once again in whites. There is no doubt that the Indian team will not take Bangladesh lightly, especially after their recent 2-0 victory over Pakistan. Bangladesh comes packed with players who could surprise India. As mentioned, India is also bringing their superstars to the match. Let’s take a look at three players that fans should watch closely.
Players to watch out for in Ind vs Ban
Rohit Sharma
Indian captain Rohit Sharma will surely be the first player fans focus on, especially since he recently retired from T20 cricket after leading India to an ICC T20 silverware. Now, as India prepares for the WTC, his performances—both with the bat and as a leader—will be crucial. Although his record against Bangladesh in Test cricket hasn’t been impressive, it’s important to note that he hasn’t played much red-ball cricket against them, having scored just 33 runs in total with an average of only 11. There’s a chance we might see a turnaround and some big sixes from the Hitman on the Chepauk pitch this time.
Virat Kohli
Now, talking about Virat Kohli, who is coming back after a long break and needs to switch on his Test cricket boots once again, there is no doubt that people are looking forward to him performing well in this upcoming series. Kohli has a strong record against Bangladesh in Test cricket; in the 6 matches he has played, across a total of 9 innings, he has scored 437 runs at an average of 54.62, including two centuries. Not to forget, his double century also came against the Bangladesh team in Hyderabad. With such a strong record, he will be looking to improve it even further.
Shakib Al Hasan
Now, let’s talk about one Bangladesh star who could make a significant impact, Shakib Al Hasan. Having faced India multiple times, he has played 8 Test matches against them, scoring a total of 376 runs with a highest score of 84. Although he has no centuries to his name, his all-round performances have come into the limelight, as he has also taken 21 wickets, including one five-wicket haul. Shakib might surprise the Indian team with his bowling, especially on the turning pitch of Chennai. Although It has been reported that red soil is being used to prepare a fast-paced surface, so it will be interesting to see how this superstar performs.
Surya Kumar Yadav
Hardik Pandya
