The BAN vs SL Test series 2022 is anticipated to be exciting, as both teams are confident in their ability to compete. Sri Lanka are under pressure to make a strong comeback in the forthcoming series following their previous series loss to India. On the other side, Bangladesh are hoping to win a Test series against Sri Lanka for the first time. However, the hosts will find it difficult to win a longer-version series. They need key players to step up during the competition. Let’s look at the five players who might be crucial for Bangladesh in the upcoming Test series.
Five Key Bangladesh Players for BAN vs SL Test Series 2022
Both the squads have some genuine talented cricketers who have the ability to change the scenario of a game. However, team tigers should feel confident in that perspective as on home soil, anyone can burst into the scene and do the job for the hosts. Let's have a glance at five Bangladesh players’ Test statistics who can be a difference-maker.
Mominul Haque
Test Inn: 95 | Runs: 3,514 | HS: 181 | Ave: 39.48 | 100s: 11
Test skipper Mominul Haque was recently heavily criticized for not showing enough leadership aptitude during the South Africa series. One of the criticisms was that the seniors' influence heavily on his decision-making. Mominul must demonstrate to everyone that he possesses leadership qualities and can guide the Test side with a clear vision.
Apart from his captaincy role, Mominul will be crucial for Bangladesh’s middle order. Thankfully, the left-hander has a brilliant record at home and there is an expectation that Mominul will find his rhythm during the series.
Read BAN vs SL Test Series 2022: What would the combined XI look like?
Tamim Iqbal
Test Inn: 125 | Runs: 4,848 | HS: 206 | Ave: 39.41 | 100s: 9
The veteran Tamim Iqbal will be vital for Bangladesh to strengthen the top order. He has to anchor the innings in order to give Bangladesh a great platform. If Tamim plays to his full potential, Bangladesh will surely find a good position in their innings.
Litton Das
Test Inn: 53 | Runs: 1,730 | HS: 114 | Ave: 33.26 | 100s: 2
Consistency is one of Litton Das's biggest problems. However, he has been in great form in the Test format over the past year. Litton has 871 runs in 19 innings with an average of 45.84 since January 2021. He will most likely bat in the middle order, with the responsibility of guiding Bangladesh's innings to a competitive total.
Read BAN vs SL Test Series 2022: Who holds the advantage in records?
Taijul Islam
Test Match: 36 | Wickets: 153 | BBI: 8/39 | Ave: 32.01 | 5Ws: 10
Left-arm orthodox spinner, Taijul’s home record has been excellent, with 115 wickets in 23 matches. Facing him in Bangladesh’s conditions is a nightmare for the opposition batters. The Lankan batting line-up will surely face an uphill task against Taijul Islam, especially on days 4 and 5.
Shakib Al Hasan
Test Match: 59 | Runs: 4,029 | HS: 217 | Ave: 39.50 | 100s: 5 | Wickets: 215 | BBI: 7/36 | Ave: 31.30 | 5Ws: 18
Tigers' biggest weapon in the series will be Shakib Al Hasan. He will lead the hosts' spin attack and could play a key role in the middle order. Shakib in his finest form is capable of putting the Lankan team under pressure and taking the game away from them.
Read Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Test Series 2022: Squad comparison
Aftermath
At home, anyone from Bangladesh's team can fire up against Sri Lanka. However, the five key Bangladeshi players named above are more likely to step up for the hosts. Captain Mominul bears the main responsibility for bringing the team together, which is essential for team success. The efficient spin of Taijul Islam, the all-round contribution of Shakib Al Hasan, the anchor role of Tamim Iqbal as an opener, and Litton Das' recent Test form can all help Bangladesh win the BAN vs SL Test Series 2022.