Bangladesh challenge for Zimbabwe after readmission (Preview)

When Zimbabwe take field on Thursday, it will be an achievement of sorts. Thanks to their internal problems that plagued progress of the game in the country, Zimbabwe, in 2005, decided not to play the longest format of the game. Lot has changed since in the African country with host of former greats administering the game. Most of things look hunky-dory and Zimbabwe on its return to test cricket will face their rivals Bangladesh first up.

For both the teams, it is the battle in pursuit of avoiding the last spot in the ICC rankings. In the build up to their readmission in test cricket, Zimbabwe have gone through the grind of playing against strong A teams of South Africa and Australia. And, the Brendan Taylor led side, who has anointed as skipper after Elton Chigumbura resigned from the post, look a well oiled side to brace their first challenge. 

What should hold the hosts in good stead against Bangladesh is the fact that their side showed determination and will to do well. The preparations were rounded off with Zimbabwean XI beating Bangladesh in a tour game. Most of the players that featured in the practice game are part of the squad that will take on the tourists. The progress of some youngsters, over the years, like Brain Vitori, Keegan Meth, Kyle Jarvis and Tino Mawoyo bodes well for the future of Zimbabwean cricket. Then there are some proven cricketers none as important as spin duo of Ray Price and Prosper Utseya, former captain Tatenda Taibu and skipper Taylor himself.

By the look of things, the home side is going to prepare a fast and bouncy wicket at Harare Sports Club for this one off test. A clear message to the touring side that Zimbabwe is all ready to give them some chin music.

Courtesy scheduling Bangladesh too had a hiatus of only fourteen months though. Save for ODI series against Australia at home, Bangladesh haven’t had any form of cricket after the recently concluded world cup. It will be interesting how the Shakib Al Hassan side fare in their first test assignment in fourteen months.

The core group of the team remains same that played in the world cup. For some Bangladesh players, the series could well define their careers. Yet again, spotlight will be on former skipper and talented Mohammad Ashraful given another chance to translate his potential into runs. Explosive opener Tamim Iqbal will be egged up to enhance his reputation as one of the most destructive openers going around.

For Bangladesh, playing test cricket in last five years or so should give some edge over the hosts. The fact tourists start as favourites should make Shakib’s job as skipper even more difficult. Not often his side is dubbed as favourites that could well turn against them.

The fast and bouncy surface at Harare Sports club shouldn’t give Bangladesh sleepless nights for they boast off some good fast bowlers in their ranks. Shafiul Islam and Rubel Hossain have in them to pose plenty of problems for inexperienced Zimbabwean batting lineup. So, Zimbabwe better be aware.

With their readmission into test cricket, Zimbabwe will be upbeat to start their second innings on a winning note. Bangladesh will definitely be having other ideas and will be keen to prove there is a gulf between their side and the hosts.

 ZIMBABWE SQUAD

Brendan Taylor (capt), Regis Chakabva, Elton Chigumbura, Craig Ervine, Hamilton Masakadza, Tino Mawoyo, Keegan Meth, Chris Mpofu, Ray Price, Vusi Sibanda, Tatenda Taibu (wk), Prosper Utseya, Brian Vitori, Kyle Jarvis.

BANGLADESH SQUAD

Shakib Al Hasan (capt), Tamim Iqbal (vc), Imrul Kayes, Junaid Siddique, Mohammad Ashraful, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Abdur Razzak, Shafiul Islam, Rubel Hossain, Nazmul Hossain, Shahriar Nafees, Robiul Islam, Shuvagoto Hom, Nasir Hossain.