The test match between Bangladesh and Afghanistan is set to begin on June 14, 2023, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. This one-off Test match promises to be an exciting encounter between two competitive sides, showcasing their skills and determination in the longest format of the game.
A significant highlight of this match is the appointment of Litton Das as the captain of the Bangladesh Test cricket squad. The free-scoring opening batsman and wicketkeeper will lead his country for the first time in Test cricket, which makes the match even more interesting. As both teams gear up for this thrilling face-off, cricket enthusiasts in Bangladesh eagerly await the on-field action and the strategic battles that will unfold.
Prospect of Litton Das as Captain of Bangladesh Test Squad
Litton is appointed captain because Shakib Al Hasan cannot play due to a finger injury. During his Test debut in 2015, Litton gave a bright message about the future of batting. He is going to lead Bangladesh in Tests after eight years of many ups and downs. Litton will be the 12th captain of the Bangladesh Test cricket team.
Read more: 2023 Bangladesh Vs Afghanistan Test: Head-to-head records, Who is favorite?
Even though he is stepping in temporarily, Litton feels confident because he has been doing a great job as a wicketkeeper for a while now. Last year, he scored 800 runs in Test matches, which is a big achievement. Only two other Bangladeshi players have reached that milestone in a single year.
Litton Das has been a vice captain under Shakib Al Hasan for the Bangladesh Test team for the last year. On top of that, Litton served as captain last December in the one day series. So, he has some experience leading the team. However, some fans are worried because Litton sometimes struggles to turn his good starts into big scores. After the great potential at the beginning of his career, it was not long before darkness fell.
After passing through the stormy tide, he turned around and paved his own way. And recent form is also in Litton’s favour. So, Litton Das has a good prospect as captain of the Test squad.
Read more: BAN vs AFG Series 2023: Afghanistan Test Squad Analysis
Does Test Experience Give Bangladesh Advantage over Afghanistan?
Bangladesh has a more extensive history and experience in playing Test cricket compared to Afghanistan. This experience can be an advantage for Bangladesh, as they have a better understanding of the strategies required to succeed in the longest format of the game.
Bangladesh made its Test debut in November 2000, while Afghanistan played its first Test match in June 2018. This means that Bangladesh has been playing Test cricket for nearly 18 years longer than Afghanistan. As of April 2023, Bangladesh has played 137 Test matches, while Afghanistan has played 6 Test matches.
Bangladesh’s Test record has shown steady improvement over the years, with notable victories against top cricketing nations. They have registered Test wins against teams like Australia, England, and New Zealand, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level. On the other hand, Afghanistan’s Test experience is limited, and they are still finding their footing in the format.
Read more: BAN vs AFG Series 2023: Bangladesh Test Squad Analysis
In terms of individual player statistics, Bangladesh has several experienced Test cricketers with impressive records. Players like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz have been involved in Bangladesh’s Test successes. These players bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team, which can be invaluable in a Test match scenario.
In contrast, Afghanistan’s Test team is relatively inexperienced, with most of their players having played only a handful of Test matches. While they have talented players like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, their overall experience in Test cricket is limited compared to Bangladesh. However, both of them are absent from upcoming matches.
So, Bangladesh’s extensive Test experience, both as a team and in terms of individual player records, gives them an advantage over Afghanistan in the upcoming Test match on June 14, 2023.
Read more: BAN vs AFG Series 2023: Fixtures, Schedules, Teams, Head-to-Head Records
Final Words
Litton Das is excited to step onto the field as Test captain for the Bangladesh team. However, he has done it before in the ODI format, so it will not be a big challenge for him. With a great mindset, Litton is determined to give his best and wants to play an excellent inning. On the whole, Bangladesh’s Test experience will definitely give them an advantage over Afghanistan in the BAN vs AFG Test match on June 14, 2023.