Shanto To Lead, Shakib Al Hasan In; Bangladesh's Probable Squad For India Tests


Bangladesh recently defeated Pakistan in a Test series [X]Bangladesh recently defeated Pakistan in a Test series [X]

After securing an emphatic clean sweep against Pakistan, Bangladesh are set to take on India in a two-match Test series. Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh showcased a commendable fighting spirit to stun Pakistan in the recently held away series. However, the upcoming India tour will test their resilience, given the dominance of Rohit Sharma's men on home soil. 

During their tour of Pakistan, Bangladesh's bowlers were the backbone of their victory, outclassing Shan Masood and his team in all aspects of the game. They made it extremely difficult for the host batters to take advantage of their home conditions, while the batting unit also performed admirably, contributing to their historic series win. 

As explained by ace speedster Shoriful Islam, Bangladesh are booming with confidence following their clinical triumph against Pakistan. So, as they prepare for the India tour, let's analyse and find out which players could be picked for the high-voltage Test series. 

Bangladesh likely to pick a spin-heavy squad for India Tests

Indian pitches have historically been conducive to spin bowling. Therefore, the teams that tour India for a Test series generally prefer to cover all bases in their spin bowling department. 

So, despite having a formidable fast-bowling quartet of Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam and Nahid Rana, Bangladesh are expected to include at least four spin-bowling options, including the in-form all-round duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, in their squad for the India series. 

Barring Shakib and Mehidy, the experienced Taijul Islam could be the frontrunner for a potential third spinner's position in the visitors' playing XI, while Nayeem Hasan and Khaled Ahmed might retain their spots in the bowling reserves. 

Litton Das, who recently slammed a magnificent ton against Pakistan, will spearhead Bangladesh's batting department alongside Mushfiqur Rahim, Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan and Mominul Haque. The eyes will also be on skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, who would be keen to regain his mojo after a torrid run in Pakistan Tests. 

Bangladesh's probable squad for Test series Vs India

Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Litton Das (WK), Mominul Haque, Shadman Islam, Zakir Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shakib Al Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Nayeem Hasan, Shoriful Islam, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed