Bangladesh bank on spinners in decider (Preview)

Finally, the change of guard seems to be working for Bangladesh. Under the captaincy of Mushfiqur Rahim, the side had faltered in the first two ODIs against West Indies but a comprehensive win in third match of the series lifted their spirits big time. Even though, inclement weather came in their way in the first test, yet the hosts were by far the best team on display.

On the contrary, West Indies have slipped after a promising start to the tour. If not for the weather gods, the visitors would have found it hard to save the first test, however, the good thing is that they still have a chance to clinch the series.

In what was effectively a three day match because torrential rains prevented any play on the second and third day, Bangladesh were always in front courtesy a stellar debut by left arm spinner Sunny Elias who with his six wicket haul in the first innings caught everybody’s attention. The young man for sure has a big heart plus a skill set that should make him a successful operator at the international level. His relentless bowling created a host of chances for Bangladesh, ensuring that his team was never chasing the game.

The rookie was well supported by the fast bowlers and star all-rounder Shakib al Hasan who picked up three wickets in the first innings to give his side a sizeable lead. With inexperienced West Indian batting line-up struggling to play the turning ball well, the spin duo would be trump card for the home team.

West Indies would be more than happy to start the second test at nil-nil for the lackluster batting almost capitulated in front of an aggressive bowling by Bangladesh. Although, Darren Sammy and Shivnarine Chanderpaul hit brisk fifties, but the unit as a whole did not look comfortable when the ball spun even marginally. West Indies on the least need one big score in the match to put some pressure on Bangladesh, otherwise the home spinners will be hard to get away.

The fact that both teams would be chasing a rare Test series victory, the Mirpur stadium with its vociferous crowd should be full of excitement throughout the five days only if the rain stays away. Though, Bangladesh would be the favourites, West Indies have the quality to spring a surprise.

Bangladesh Squad: Mushfiqur Rahim (capt & wk), Tamim Iqbal, Imrul Kayes, Shakib Al Hasan, Raqibul Hasan, Naeem Islam, Nasir Hossain, Shahriar Nafees, Rubel Hossain, Nazmul Hossain, Shahadat Hossain, Suhrawadi Shuvo, Shuvagata Hom, Elias Sunny.

West Indies Squad: Darren Sammy (capt), Carlton Baugh (wk), Devendra Bishoo, Kraigg Brathwaite, Darren Bravo, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Fidel Edwards, Kirk Edwards, Keiran Powell, Denesh Ramdin, Ravi Rampaul, Kemar Roach, Marlon Samuels, Shane Shillingford, Lendl Simmons.