As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the commencement of the first Test match in the upcoming two-match series between Bangladesh and New Zealand, all eyes are set on the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet. The clash, scheduled to take place from November 28 to December 2, 2023, promises a riveting start to the new World Test Championship cycle.
Bangladesh, fresh off a disappointing ODI series defeat against the Kiwis, is determined to turn the tide in the longer format. Armed with a formidable batting lineup featuring the likes of Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Najmul Hossain Shanto, they are poised to pose a significant challenge. The bowling department, led by the experienced trio of Taijul Islam, Shohidul Islam, and Khaled Ahmed, is geared up for the task ahead.
Meanwhile, New Zealand, riding high on their recent Test cricket success, enters the series with a well-balanced squad boasting seasoned players. The batting order, under the captaincy of Kane Williamson and the explosive Devon Conway, exudes confidence. The bowling attack, spearheaded by the seasoned duo of Tim Southee and Neil Wagner, adds further strength to their arsenal.
As the cricketing enthusiasts speculate on the nature of the pitch at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, expectations are high for a spin-friendly surface. This potential advantage seems to favor Bangladesh, but New Zealand's squad, equipped with a cadre of experienced spinners, ensures that they are not to be underestimated.
Bangladesh Squad:
- Shadman Islam
- Mahmudul Hasan Joy
- Mominul Haque
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Nurul Hasan
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Taijul Islam
- Khaled Ahmed
- Hasan Mahmud
- Shoriful Islam
- Shahadat Hossain
- Hasan Murad
- Naeem Hasan
- Zakir Hasan
New Zealand Squad:
- Devon Conway
- Henry Nicholls
- Tom Latham
- Kane Williamson
- Daryl Mitchell
- Rachin Ravindra
- Mitchell Santner
- Ajaz Patel
- Tim Southee
- Kyle Jamieson
- Neil Wagner
- Will Young
- Ish Sodhi
- Glenn Phillips
- Tom Blundell
The squad lineups for both teams showcase a blend of experience and talent, setting the stage for a fiercely competitive encounter. Bangladesh's squad, featuring the likes of Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, is brimming with potential. New Zealand's roster, including the dynamic Devon Conway, the reliable Henry Nicholls, and the evergreen Tim Southee, is ready to continue their Test cricket dominance.