The Bangladesh cricket team is riding high after achieving a historic 2-0 victory in their recent Test series against Pakistan, marking their first Test match and series win against this formidable opponent. This achievement has significantly boosted the confidence of the players, including captain Nazmul Hasan Shanto, and as the team prepares to face India, they have established a training camp in Dhaka. However, looming over their preparations is a unique concern—the SG ball, priced at Rs 3600, which has been a topic of discussion among the players.
Litton Das Voices Concerns Over SG Ball
Wicketkeeper-batsman Litton Das has expressed his apprehensions regarding the SG ball, particularly its impact on their performance in the upcoming matches against India. He highlighted that while the new SG ball is easier to play compared to the Kookaburra ball used in Pakistan, it becomes increasingly challenging as it wears down. This aspect is thought to play a crucial role in the game, especially since conditions in India might differ significantly from those in Pakistan.
Das explained that the SG ball’s softness when new makes it more manageable for batters initially; however, as it gets older, it can create difficulties due to its tendency to seam and grip the pitch more sharply. On the other hand, the Kookaburra ball, although challenging to play when new, tends to become easier as it wears, a factor that played in their favor during the series against Pakistan.
Upcoming Matches: Bangladesh vs. India
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has organized intensive training camps in Dhaka to sharpen the team’s skills ahead of their tour of India. Senior player Shakib Al Hasan is currently refining his bowling techniques in England to bolster the team’s strength. The team is set to arrive in India on September 15, with the first Test match scheduled to commence in Chennai on September 19.
In preparation, the Indian Cricket Board is not taking any chances; they have organized a training camp for Team India in Chennai from September 13 to 18, ensuring that all selected players are present to fine-tune their strategies and skills.
Bangladesh’s Historical Test Record Against India
Despite the team’s recent accomplishments, Bangladesh has historically struggled against India in Test cricket. The two sides have faced each other 13 times, yet Bangladesh has never managed to secure a win, with India achieving victory in 11 matches and the other two ending in draws. Ravichandran Ashwin has been a particular nemesis for Bangladesh, claiming an impressive 23 wickets across just six matches against them, a record that highlights the challenges the Bangladeshi batsmen face when pitted against India.
As the Bangladesh team gears up for this high-stakes series, the players are determined to put their best foot forward despite the challenges posed by the unfamiliar SG ball and a daunting historical record against their rivals.
