Bangladesh and England were involved in some brilliant contest in the ODI series, with the Three Lions clinching it 2-1. Now, the action shifts to the longer format of the game, which is a litmus test for any cricketer. Another thrilling battle is expected to take shape with the first Test set to take place in Chittagong, starting Thursday.
Bangladesh might have lost the ODI series, but they did play some good cricket in coloured clothing, which is their forte. Playing Test cricket against England is not going to be easy as they are an equally dangerous team in the longer format as well.
England have been in good form in the Test arena this year. They have defeated Sri Lanka in the Test series, and tied with Pakistan after playing some good cricket at home, where the pitches supported their style of cricket.
Bangladesh, which have always been a solid team at home, will try to use the slow pitches to their advantage. They have the ammunition to take 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series, but they need to play consistent cricket for all five days to defeat the visitors, who are on a high after the ODI series. To make matters tough for Bangladesh, they are playing Test cricket after more than 14 months.
England also have a solid team, with a good mix of batsmen and bowlers. Alastair Cook, who will create history by becoming the most capped Test player, will play an important role in the series as an opener besides being the captain. He could partner Haseeb Hameed at the top while Joe Root will be their crucial player as he is one of the best players of spin in the England team.
With the pitches said to assist spinners more, England might be forced to play with three spinners – Adil Rashid, Moeen Ali and Gareth Batty. Chris Woakes and Stuart Broad will feature as pacers.
Coming to Bangladesh, their batsmen know the conditions well, but they will surely be tested by the England bowlers.
And if one looks at the batting experience, Bangladesh have a solid line up with Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes as openers, followed by quality batsmen such as Mahmudullah, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim among others. Bowlers like Taijul Islam will also need to play an important role if they are to emerge victorious.
Where to Watch Live
Bangladesh vs England 1st Test match is set to begin at 10 am local time (9:30 am IST, 5 am BST, 12 am ET). TV and live streaming information is below.
India: TV: Star Sports 2 and Star Sports HD2. Live Streaming: Hotstar
Bangladesh: TV: GTV
UK: TV: Sky Sports 2 and Sky Sports HD2. Live Streaming: Sky Go
USA and Canada: TV: Willow TV. Live Streaming: Willow TV Online
