Antigua, Nov 22 (V7N) – The Bangladesh cricket team, known as the Tigers, will begin their two-match Test series against the West Indies today at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. The match is scheduled to start at 8:00 PM Bangladesh time.

The Tigers will be looking to turn the tide at a venue that has been particularly challenging for them. In 2018, Bangladesh was bowled out for their lowest Test score of just 43 runs at this very ground. They also suffered a crushing 7-wicket defeat in their last Test here in 2022, managing only 103 and 245 runs in two innings.

Bangladesh will be without two key players: experienced batter Mushfiqur Rahim, sidelined due to injury, and regular captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto. Mehedi Hasan Miraj will lead the team and has expressed hope for a strong comeback.

The return of pacer Shariful Islam could be a boost for the Tigers, as his experience might be pivotal on Antigua’s pace-friendly wicket. However, the youth-heavy team will have to overcome the psychological barrier of past failures at this venue.

The West Indies, led by their pace attack, are well-prepared to exploit their home advantage. Alzarri Joseph, who missed their recent series against South Africa, returns to the squad. However, the team will miss all-rounder Jason Holder, ruled out of the series due to a shoulder injury.

The Caribbeans, with a four-pacer strategy, are confident on home soil, where they have historically dominated Bangladesh, winning 8 of the 10 Tests played in the Caribbean.

Head-to-Head

  • Tests Played in the Caribbean: 10
  • Bangladesh Wins: 2 (both in 2009)
  • West Indies Wins: 8

Key Players to Watch

  • Bangladesh: Shariful Islam, Mehedi Hasan Miraj
  • West Indies: Alzarri Joseph, Kraigg Brathwaite

The Tigers face a daunting task but hope to overcome the odds and script a memorable performance in Antigua.

END/RH/Aj