Bangladesh Cricket
Shakib Al Hasan's Captaincy Record in Test Cricket: An Overview
Mominul Haque met with BCB president Nazmul Hasan Papon last week to inform him of his decision to step down as Test captain. The left-handed batsman was hesitant to remain as Bangladesh's Test captain despite the BCB chief's requests. With only one week until the West Indies tour, the BCB had to move fast to appoint a new Test captain. The BCB named Shakib as the new Test captain on Thursday (June 2) following a meeting with the ace all-rounder. Litton was also promoted to vice-captain. Shakib was a successful Test skipper for Bangladesh in the past. Shakib Al Hasan’s performance as Test captain is discussed in this article.
Shakib Al Hasan’s Test Cricket Career as Captain
Shakib made his Test debut against India in 2007, and two years later, in the second Test against the West Indies, he led Bangladesh for the first time in the absence of Mashrafe Mortaza, who was injured. The Shakib-led side triumphed by four wickets and sealed the series 2-0. After that, Shakib went on to captain Bangladesh for seven more games before Mushfiqur Rahim took over. In 2018, the ace all-rounder returned to lead Bangladesh and remained captain until 2019. He was released from the role following a one-year ban by the ICC in late October 2019.
Read Litton Das Reaches 12, Highest Ever Test Ranking in Career
Shakib Al Hasan has captained Bangladesh in 14 matches so far, and the team has won three and lost eleven. All of his victories as captain have come against the West Indies, two at home and one away. Interestingly, Shakib Al Hasan will captain Bangladesh again against West Indies, like he did the previous two times.
Country-wise, Shakib Al Hasan’s Test Captaincy Record
Team
Matches
Won
Lost
West Indies
5
3
2
Afghanistan
1
0
1
England
4
0
4
India
2
0
2
New Zealand
1
0
1
Zimbabwe
1
0
1
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read Bangladesh vs West Indies Series 2022: Full Fixtures and Squads
Batting Performance of Shakib Al Hasan as Captain
Shakib Al Hasan has an exceptional battering record while captaining the team. Shakib is second only to Tamim Iqbal in terms of run scoring in the 14 games he has led for Bangladesh. Shakib has scored 918 runs in 27 innings as captain, with an average of 35.30. He has a century against New Zealand as captain.
Country-wise, Shakib Al Hasan’s batting performance as captain
Opposition
Innings
Runs
HS
Ave
West Indies
9
325
96*
40.62
England
8
202
96
25.25
New Zealand
2
187
100
93.50
India
4
75
34
18.75
Zimbabwe
2
74
68
37.00
Afghanistan
2
55
44
27.50
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read Who Can Replace Mominul Haque as Bangladesh Test Cricket Captain?
Bowling Performance of Shakib Al Hasan as Captain
Shakib al Hasan's bowling record while captaining the team has been superb. He has taken the most wickets in the 14 matches he has led for Bangladesh. Shakib has 61 wickets in 26 innings as skipper, at an average of 28.77. He has four five-wicket hauls as captain.
Country-wise, Shakib Al Hasan’s bowling performance as captain.
Opposition
Matches
Wickets
BBI
Ave
West Indies
5
25
6/33
18.32
India
2
9
5/62
32.44
New Zealand
1
1
1/89
133.00
England
4
17
5/121
36.94
Zimbabwe
1
4
3/62
30.50
Afghanistan
1
5
3/58
24.40
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read Is Mominul doing enough as Test Captain?
Bottom Line
One of the reasons Mominul Haque resigned as captain was because he couldn't focus on his batting due to the added pressure. Shakib Al Hasan's performance as a player while serving as skipper is outstanding. Shakib has a solid record with both the ball and the bat while captaining the Bangladesh Test team. Shakib has also led Bangladesh to the best winning percentage in Test cricket. Therefore, the BCB made the suitable decision in selecting Shakib Al Hasan as Bangladesh's next Test cricket captain.
Litton Das Reaches 12, Highest Ever Test Ranking in Career
Litton Das's excellent consistency with the bat was rewarded with a career-high rating of number 12 in the ICC rankings. He was ranked at 12 in March, but he has improved his rating points this time. Litton's 12th place finish and 724 rating points are the most in Bangladesh cricket history. Tamim Iqbal formerly held the top ICC Test batting rankings of 14 and the best 709 rating points among Bangladesh players. Let's look at the top Test ranking scenarios for Bangladesh players.
Litton Das's Rankings Scenarios since 2021
Litton Das was not even among the top Test run-scorers before 2021. He scored 762 runs in 31 innings and was ranked 70th until 2020. A new confident version of Litton Das emerged when Bangladesh resumed international cricket in January 2021. His performance in the longer-version format has been particularly impressive in the last year and a half.
Read: Shakib re-appointed as new Test captain
The right-handed batter has scored 1,152 runs in 22 innings with an average of 52.36 since last year, putting him among the top three run-scorers in the world in Test cricket. Litton's rating has risen significantly because of his steadiness with the bat. He has climbed to the 12th spot after a tremendous leap. Furthermore, the rating points have surpassed 700. Litton Das's ICC Test batting rankings are broken down into quarters.
Litton Das’s Test batting rankings in each Quadrimester since January 2021
Date
Ranking
Rating
January 1, 2021,
70
450
April 30, 2021,
55
509
August 31, 2021,
56
509
December 31, 2021,
32
595
April 30, 2022,
20
644
May 27, 2022 (last updated)
12
724
Source: https://www.relianceiccrankings.com/’
Other Important Test Ranking Scenarios for Bangladeshi Players
Shakib Al Hasan has stayed in fourth place in the Test rankings in the all-rounder category. The ace all-rounder can enhance his present position if he shows great consistency during the upcoming West Indies trip. Shakib has 327 rating points, which is only 58 points less than Ravindra Jadeja, the top-ranked player. Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz has remained in 17th place despite missing out on the Sri Lanka series.
Read Bangladesh vs West Indies Series 2022: Full Fixtures and Squads
The left-arm spinner, Taijul Islam holds the highest ranking among Bangladeshi bowlers. He is now in 27th place with 603 rating points, while Shakib Al Hasan is in 29th place with 593 rating points. After two fantastic hundreds against Sri Lanka, Mushfiqur Rahim has increased his rankings among the batters. He is now ranked 18th with 675 rating points. Tamim Iqbal's place has dropped in the rankings. He has dropped to the 32nd position with 577 rating points.
Bottom Line
If Litton Das continues to excel with the bat in the forthcoming West Indies series, he has a chance to improve his Test batting rankings even further. Litton might be one or two fifties away from becoming the first Bangladeshi to break into the top ten. If he can do that on the West Indies tour, it will undoubtedly be a tremendous achievement for him. Furthermore, both Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim have a chance to enhance their all-rounder and batting rankings respectively. Besides, if Bangladesh's team is to win the series against the West Indies, they must be well prepared.
Read Is Mominul doing enough as Test Captain?
Who Can Replace Mominul Haque as Bangladesh Test Cricket Captain?
Bangladesh Test cricket captain, Mominul Haque, has realized that he has failed to motivate the team. The left-handed batter met with BCB President Nazmul Hassan Papon on Tuesday (May 31) to discuss his role in the Test team. Mominul told the BCB president that he no longer wanted to captain the Test side and instead wanted to concentrate on his batting. However, Nazmul Hasan informed the media before the meeting that he didn't want Mominul to leave the role. Let's have a look at the potential replacements for Mominul Haque.
The Potential Candidates to Replace Mominul Haque as Bangladesh Test Cricket Captain
Appointing a captain for Bangladesh's Test team may not have been as difficult as it is now a few years ago. Senior players are nearing the end of their careers, and a few of them are reluctant to participate in all formats of the game. Picking the right person to fill the shoe in such a scenario is a challenging task. However, the BCB has no option but to choose one, and it must do so with a long-term vision. Let's see who the finest candidates are for Bangladesh Test Captain.
Shakib Al Hasan
Given the current circumstances, Shakib Al Hasan seems to be an ideal replacement for Mominul Haque. He was the captain of the side before being banned by the ICC in the year 2019. Shakib wasn’t considered for the role after returning to the national side and has been playing as a key member of the squad. Shakib’s record has been the best among the Bangladesh Test captains. As captain, he has the best winning percentage of 21.42 percent.
Read: Mominul reluctant to continue as Test captain; informs BCB
Bangladesh's top three most successful Test captains
Player
Match
Win
Loss
Draw
Winning %
Shakib Al Hasan
14
3
11
0
21.42
Mushfiqur Rahim
34
7
18
9
20.58
Mominul Haque
17
3
12
2
17.64
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
However, the ace all-rounder has the habit of skipping bilateral series, especially in the last five years. Reportedly, the BCB’s first choice is Shakib Al Hasan, but it depends on his commitment and desire to captain the Test side.
Tamim Iqbal
The BCB may turn their focus on ODI captain Tamim Iqbal if they fail to reach an agreement with Shakib. Right now, Tamim’s focus is to build an ideal squad for the ODI side and make the Bangladesh team a competitive one for the 2023 World Cup. In quest of that, Tamim has been doing well so far. That is why the left-handed batter may not be so keen on taking the role. However, there is no doubt that Tamim would be a perfect fit for the role.
Read: Bangladesh vs West Indies Series 2022: Full Fixtures and Squads
Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Many consider Mehidy Hasan Miraz as the next Test captain of Bangladesh. But at the moment, he may not be an ideal choice given the fact that many senior players are still playing the longer-version format. He has the potential to lead Bangladesh, but at the moment he is suited to the vice-captaincy role.
Litton Das
Appointing Litton Das as Test captain can be a suicidal decision. Litton is in the form of his life at the moment as he has been one of the top run scorers in the Test format since 2021. Giving Litton the leadership role could put him under immense pressure, which could possibly affect his batting performance. However, many want the board to give Litton a chance to lead the Bangladesh Test side. Will the BCB take the risk and hand over the post to Litton? On top of that, Litton has to convince everyone that he is ready to lead the team.
Mushfiqur Rahim
Mushfiqur has led Bangladesh in 34 matches, most by any captain. Under his leadership, Bangladesh have won seven matches, most by any captain. He has the second-best winning ratio, at 20.58 percent. Mr. Dependable made two brilliant hundred in the latest series against Sri Lanka. Everything is perfectly matched for Mushfiqur to take the role. Then why doesn’t BCB consider him a potential replacement in the first place? Mushfiqur was ousted from the post in 2017 because the board did not believe in his development as a leader. However, the BCB may consider him as well if everyone steps back to take the role.
Read Is Mominul doing enough as Test Captain?
Verdict
The BCB has been put under pressure as a result of Mominul Haque's decision to resign as Bangladesh Test cricket captain just ahead of the upcoming away series. Because the West Indies tour is rapidly approaching, the BCB must move quickly to appoint a new Test captain. With the future in mind, the BCB will hopefully name a new captain who is fit to lead Bangladesh Test cricket forward.
Bangladesh's top-order fail yet again
Bangladesh’s top-order failed to prove its sustainability against the Sri Lankan pace attack when they lost four wickets once again under 25 runs and slipped into a situation from where they cannot hope to win the Dhaka Test.
Tamim Iqbal, who hit a century in the first Test in Chattogram, his hometown, suffered a pair in Dhaka. Najmul Hossain Shanto scored only two. Mominul Haque proved once again that he is not a good batter if he is the captain. And Mahmudul Hasan Joy was the only batter in Bangladesh’s top order to reach a double-digit score in the second innings of the Dhaka Test.
When Sri Lanka ended up their first innings securing a lead of 141 runs, it was expected that this match is going to end in a draw. But the fragile top-order of Bangladesh looked like they are eager to force a result.
Read: Shakib takes five after Sri Lanka secure lead of 141
It was an angling delivery from Asitha Fernando at the good length. Tamim went to defend it but managed a thick edge to the second slip. Right before Tamim, Mahmudul survived after making the same mistake, but the fortune of Tamim was not the same.
And after losing Tamim early, Shanto fell victim to run-out while scampering a single. Praveen Jayawickrama ran from the point and hit the stumps directly.
BAN vs SL Second Test 2022: Mushfiqur-Litton Partnership Evaluation in Records Book
Bangladesh had a difficult start against Sri Lanka in the first innings of the BAN vs SL Second Test 2022 at SBNCS, Mirpur. They lost five wickets in the first hour of the first session on day one, putting the team in a terrible position. Then, Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das collaborated on a stunning 272-run sixth-wicket partnership to help the Tigers make a remarkable comeback in the innings. Bangladesh finally scored 365 in their first innings, which would not have been possible without Mushfiqur and Litton's outstanding contributions.
Highlights of the Mushfiqur-Litton Partnership
Bangladesh skipper Mushfiqur Rahim opted to bat first in the BAN vs SL Second Test 2022 on a surface where batters could flourish for at least the first two days.
It is said that batters should see out the first hour of the morning session in Test cricket. Pace bowlers usually get a little more support from the pitch in the morning, allowing them to put pressure on batters if they maintain good line and length. The Lankan bowlers did just that to Bangladesh's batters. They bowled in the right channels and took advantage of the pitch's extra swing. However, Bangladesh's batters didn't confront Lankan pacers adequately, and they should be held responsible for losing half of their wickets in the first hour of the morning session.
Read Dhaka Test: Sri Lanka trail by 222 after day 2
When Bangladesh were down to 24/5 at the end of the 6.5 overs, there was a risk of breaking their lowest-ever total – 43 records. The Lankan pacers were in perfect rhythm to do so. However, a monumental stand between Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das rescued Bangladesh from what could possibly be an embarrassing moment in front of home crowds.
Mushfiqur Rahim had focused on being steady at the crease by not taking any risks, whilst Litton Das was more aggressive. Litton did get a life soon after lunch When he was on 47. Fielder dropped his catch in the square leg region. Litton then began to attack the opposition bowlers, quickly completing his fifty. Oppositely, Mushfiqur Rahim was determined not to lose his wicket as he steadily constructed his innings.
Both batters had reached their hundred after Tea. Litton was the first to reach the century mark, scoring his third Test hundred in 149 balls. After a few overs, Mushfiqur Rahim hit his ninth Test century in 218 balls. Bangladesh ended the first day with 277/5 runs on the board. Litton Das 135 and Mushfiqur Rahim 115 went undefeated on day one at the crease.
Read Dhaka Test: Bangladesh end first innings on 365
The pair also added 19 runs together in the first session of day 2 before Litton Das (141) lost his wicket to Kasun Rajitha in the first ball of the eight overs. Litton hit 16 boundaries and a six in his innings and had a 57.31 strike rate. On the other hand, Mushfiqur Rahim stayed undefeated on 175* with 21 boundaries. This long-standing 272 runs off 513 balls partnership not only helped the team avoid an embarrassing moment, but also helped them to reach a respectable total of 365.
The record-breaking Mushfiqur-Litton partnership
Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das put together a stunning and crucial 272-run partnership for the sixth wicket. They produced several interesting records as a result of their partnership. Here are a few of them.
1) This was the best-ever stand for the sixth wicket for Bangladesh. The previous best was 191 between Mohammad Ashraful and Mushfiqur Rahim back in 2007 against Sri Lanka.
Read Day 2 of Dhaka Test: Liton, Mosaddek depart early
The top five best sixth-wicket partnerships for Bangladesh
Partners
Runs
Opposition
Ground
Year
Litton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim
272
Sri Lanka
Mirpur
2022
Mohammad Ashraful and Mushfiqur Rahim
191
Sri Lanka
Colombo
2007
Junaid Siddique and Mushfiqur Rahim
167
England
Chattogram
2010
Nasir Hossain and Shakib Al Hasan
144
West Indies
Khulna
2012
Mushfiqur Rahim and Nasir Hasan
117
Pakistan
Mirpur
2011
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
2) While constructing the 272-run big partnership, Litton and Mushfiqur faced a total of 513 balls. This was the third most in terms of balls faced for Bangladesh.
Read Mushfiqur, Liton stand tall after disastrous start
The top five partnerships in terms of balls faced for Bangladesh
Partners
Runs
Balls
Opposition
Ground
Year
Mohammad Ashraful and Mushfiqur Rahim
267
518
Sri Lanka
Galle
2013
Mominul Haque and Najmul Hossain Shanto
242
514
Sri Lanka
Pallekele
2021
Litton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim
272
512
Sri Lanka
Mirpur
2022
Javed Omar and Nafees Iqbal
133
498
Zimbabwe
Dhaka
2005
Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan
359
494
New Zealand
Wellington
2017
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
3) Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das had a 272-run partnership which is the third best in Bangladesh Test cricket history.
Read IPL 2022: The Qualified Teams in the Playoffs and Fixtures
Top Five Partnerships for Bangladesh
Partners
Runs
Wkts
Opposition
Ground
Year
Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim
359
5th
New Zealand
Wellington
2017
Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes
312
1st
Pakistan
Khulna
2015
Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das
272
6th
Sri Lanka
Mirpur
2022
Mohammad Ashraful and Mushfiqur Rahim
267
5th
Sri Lanka
Galle
2013
Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim
266
4th
Zimbabwe
Mirpur
2018
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read Mushfiqur smashes another ton vs Sri Lanka
Aftermath
Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das' performances during the first innings of the match were undoubtedly among the finest in Bangladesh Test cricket history. It's also considered one of the greatest comebacks, since scoring 365 after falling to 24/5 wasn't straightforward. Both players showed commitment and courage in their innings, which paid off handsomely. Moreover, this could be a match-saving partnership depending on the outcome of the BAN vs SL Second Test 2022.
BAN vs SL First Test 2022: Bangladesh Heading For a Big First Innings Total
The Sri Lankan team put up a valiant effort. They scored 397 runs in their first innings thanks to Angelo Mathews' brilliant effort. However, considering the conditions of the ZACS surface, Sri Lanka should have scored more runs in the first innings to mentally push Bangladesh. Oppositely, the hosts should be satisfied with their performance, which saw them restrict Sri Lanka to a reasonable total. Bangladesh are clearly aiming for a big total to take a huge first-inning lead in the BAN vs SL first Test 2022.
Sri Lanka’s First Innings
The pitch conditions indicated that it would be a belter for the batters. Therefore, Sri Lankan captain Dimuth Karunaratne didn’t have to think twice about batting first. Sri Lanka didn’t have a brilliant start, losing a couple of wickets before lunch on day one. Nayeem Hasan picked up both the openers for Bangladesh. He was included in the place of Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Nayeem has justified his inclusion by taking six wickets in the first innings.
Read Sri Lanka continue to thrive as Nayeem fights back taking 4
For Sri Lanka, veteran Angelo Mathews played a magnificent 199-run knock and single-handedly carried the innings to a big total. Mathews made a 92-run stand with Kusal Mendis for the third wicket after losing the openers in the first session. It seemed they were well set at the crease and ready to form a big partnership in the middle. However, Mendis (54) threw away his wicket after trying to smash Taijul in the mid-wicket region.
The biggest stand of Sri Lanka’s innings came between Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal for the fifth wicket. The experienced duo added 136 runs together and guided Sri Lanka to get past the 300-run barrier. Nayeem eventually broke the stand when Sri Lanka had 319 runs on board. In fact, the visitors lost four wickets in the span of four overs.
Read BAN vs SL Series 2022: Tamim, Mushfiqur on verge of unique milestones
The innings was then carried by Mathews and the tail-enders. He was on his way to completing his double hundred, but his attempt to slog Nayeem's delivery didn't go as planned, and he wasted the perfect opportunity. Bangladesh bowled Sri Lanka out for 397, with Mathews finishing one run shy of 200 in his marathon innings. Shakib Al Hasan took three wickets in addition to Nayeem, and Taijul took one wicket.
The Scenario of Bangladesh’s First Innings
Day three ended with Bangladesh reaching 318/3, just 79 runs short of Sri Lanka's first innings total. The veteran Tamim Iqbal and his new opening partner Mahmudul Hasan Joy gave the selectors some optimism by amassing 168 runs together in 48.5 overs. Tamim may have finally found a true partner in the Test format in Joy.
Read Nayeem shines with 6 wickets to deprive Mathews of double ton
Mahmudul Hasan was trapped by a bouncer by Asitha Fernando and lost his wicket after scoring his first fifty (58) at home in the Test format. Bangladesh lost two more quick wickets—Najmul Hossain Shanto and skipper Mominul Haque—and were down to 184/3.
Then Tamim Iqbal and Mushfiqur Rahim carried the innings to 220/3 at the end of day 3. In the meantime, Tamim completed his 10th Test century and first against Sri Lanka. He remained unbeaten on 133* at tea but didn’t come out to bat in the third session. The southpaw had to retire after suffering a cramp in the second session of day three. He was just 19 runs shy of reaching the 5,000 marks in Tests.
Litton Das came out to bat in place of Tamim in the post Tea session. Bangladesh didn’t lose any more wickets in the final session as Litton and Mushfiqur played out the day. Litton has remained unbeaten with 54 runs, his 12th Test fifty overall. On the other hand, Mushfiqur Rahim has remained undefeated with 53 runs, his 26th fifty overall. Mushfiqur only needs 15 runs to complete his 5,000 Test runs.
Read Andrew Symonds: Five Memorable Cricket Moments of Late Australian All-Rounder
The Bangladesh team is on a goal to put up a massive total so they don't have to bat again. They are well on their way to achieving this target. If Bangladesh keep batting like this, they will be able to amass a big total by the end of their first innings in the BAN vs SL first Test 2022.
Bottom Line
Bangladesh are only 79 runs behind Sri Lanka's first innings total with six wickets in hand. The pitch is still in terrific shape for the batters, with no big fractures apparent thus far. Bangladesh batsmen are set to dominate the Lankan bowling unit on day four if the surface remains the same, allowing them to take a substantial lead in the first innings. As a result, the play on day four of the BAN vs SL first Test 2022 is vital and will ultimately determine the match's fate.
Read Mushfiqur, Liton grind Sri Lanka after Tamim’s ton
Five Best Test Knocks by Bangladesh Batters Against Sri Lanka: A Look Back
Bangladesh have played most of the 22 Test matches against Sri Lanka since becoming an ICC full member on June 26, 2000. In the longer-version format, Team Tigers has many memorable moments against the Lankan side. Some of Bangladesh's most remarkable Test knocks have come against Sri Lanka, which the fans will always remember. The two sides will meet again in a 2-match Test series starting on Sunday (May 15). There is an expectation that more remarkable individual performances will be witnessed during the 2022 BAN vs SL Test Series. Let’s refresh the old memories by looking back at Bangladesh’s five most outstanding Test knocks against Sri Lanka.
Brilliant individual Test innings by Bangladesh Players against Sri Lanka
Bangladesh batters have produced some remarkable individual Test innings against Sri Lanka. Here are five of Bangladesh's best individual innings that fans will never forget.
Mohammad Ashraful: 190 (Galle International Stadium, 2013)
As the scorecard indicates, the Galle pitch was a batting paradise. A total of eight centuries were scored in the match. Of those, three were scored by Bangladesh batters. However, displaying brilliant batsmanship against superior opposition while playing for a weaker team is never easy. That’s why Mohammad Ashraful’s 190-run knock in the first innings was a brilliant effort. The Bangladesh team also made a record in that particular innings by playing 196 overs, their most in Test cricket history.
Read Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Series 2022: ICC WTC standings predictions for both teams
Mushfiqur Rahim: 200 (Galle International Stadium, 2013)
Mushfiqur Rahim became the first Bangladesh player to score 200 runs during the first innings of the first Test in the 2013 bilateral series against Sri Lanka. It was a marathon innings by him, who made a 267-run stand with Mohammad Ashraful in the fifth wicket partnership. Bangladesh went on to score 638, their highest-ever Test score in an innings. Mushfiqur Rahim won the Player of the Match award for his magnificent batting effort.
Shakib Al Hasan: 116 (P Sara Oval, Colombo, 2017)
Shakib Al Hasan always comes into the scene whenever Bangladesh need him to step in. That’s exactly what he did against Sri Lanka in the first innings of the second Test in 2017. Bangladesh were 192/4 when Shakib came into bat. The visitors needed someone to play a big knock and get past Sri Lanka’s first innings total (338). Thanks to Shakib’s timely 116-run knock, Bangladesh managed to score 467 in their first innings and took a 129-run lead. Bangladesh went on to win the contest by 4 wickets and finish the series 1-1.
Read BAN vs SL Test Series 2022: Five Crucial Players for Bangladesh
Tamim Iqbal: 82 (P Sara Oval, Colombo, 2017)
Bangladesh made history in their 100th Test match, winning the contest by 4 wickets against Sri Lanka. Special credit should go to opener Tamim Iqbal, who played a responsible knock of 82 in the second innings and guided Bangladesh to a glorious victory. Chasing 191 runs on day-5 on a turning pitch was a daunting task. Thankfully, Tamim rose to the occasion and gave his side a strong start in the innings. When he departed, Bangladesh only required 60 more runs to clinch the match, which they did quite comfortably.
Mohammad Ashraful: 114 (Sinhalese Sports Club Ground, Colombo, 2001)
The 17-year-old Mohammad Ashraful stunned the cricket world by scoring a century on his Test debut against Sri Lanka in 2001. He made 114 runs in the second innings and also had a century stand with veteran Aminul Islam Bulbul for the fifth wicket. Ashraful also became the youngest Test centurion ever with that hundred. It is one of the best-ever Test knocks by a Bangladeshi batter.
Read IPL 2022: Favourites to Reach the Playoffs
Bottom Line
A total of 15 centuries have been scored against Sri Lanka by Bangladesh players, and the majority of them were some efforts. Besides, the importance of some small innings also can’t be overlooked. Therefore, picking the best five was a difficult task. However, the above-mentioned have been the most memorable batting performances against Sri Lanka by Bangladesh players. The cricketers of the current Bangladesh squad can take inspiration from these innings to give their best effort in the BAN vs SL Test series 2022.
BAN vs SL Test Series 2022: Five Crucial Players for Bangladesh
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.
BAN vs SL Test Series 2022: Who holds the advantage in records?
The Sri Lanka cricket team arrived in Dhaka on Sunday (May 8) afternoon to take part in a Test series against Bangladesh. The Lankans should feel confident ahead of the contest as they have a way better Test record than the tigers. However, Bangladesh team’s performance has been improving, and they have minimized the gap in recent years. Will Sri Lanka maintain their dominance, or will Bangladesh end their hegemony and make history in the BAN vs SL Test Series 2022? Let's take a look at head-to-head Test records between the two teams.
Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka: Head-to-head Bilateral Test series record
The Sri Lanka Cricket Board announced the best possible squad for the Bangladesh series, which includes some uncapped players. On the other hand, all the expected names were included in the Tigers Test squad.
The eleventh bilateral Test series (BAN vs SL):
This will be their eleventh Test series together. Both sides had played 10 bilateral Test series previously. Sri Lanka hosted six series, while Bangladesh hosted four. Nine series have been won by Sri Lanka, with one series ending in a draw. In fact, Bangladesh have only defeated Sri Lanka once.
Read Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Test Series 2022: Squad comparison
Noteworthy Test records between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka
The following are some of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka's most noteworthy Test records.
Significant Test Records between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka
Bangladesh
Sri Lanka
Matches Played (22)
1
17
Most Runs
Mohammad Ashraful (1090 runs in 26 innings)
Kumar Sangakkara (1816 runs in 21 innings)
Highest Score
Mushfiqur Rahim (200)
Kumar Sangakkara (319)
Most Hundred
Mohammad Ashraful (5)
Kumar Sangakkara (7)
Most Wickets
Shakib Al Hasan (29)
Muthiah Muralidaran (89)
Best Bowling Figures
Shakib Al Hasan (5/70)
Rangana Herath (7/89)
Most Matches
Mushfiqur Rahim (15)
Kumar Sangakkara (15)
Highest Partnership
Mohammad Ashraful and Mushfiqur Rahim (267)
FDM Karunaratne and DM de Silva (345)
Most Catches
Shahriar Nafees (8)
Mahela Jayawardene (17)
Most Dismissals
Litton Das (16)
Prasanna Jayawardene (29)
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read Mosaddek or Nayeem: Who Should Play in CTG Test of BAN vs SL Series 2022?
BAN vs SL Test series 2022: Venue Stats
First Test (15-19 May):
The first Test match of the forthcoming BAN vs SL Test Series 2022 will be played at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram.
Test Matches: 21 | Highest Individual Innings: 319 (Kumar Sangakkara) | Best Bowling Figure in an Innings: 7/36 (Shakib Al Hasan) | Highest Team innings: 713/9d | Lowest Team Innings: 119
Bangladesh’s Test record (ZACS): Win: 2 | Lost: 13 | Draw: 6
Sri Lanka’s Test record (ZACS): Win: 2 | Lost: 0 | Draw: 2.
Read Australia names full-strength squads for Sri Lanka tour
Second Test (23-27 May):
The second Test match of the series will be held at the Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
Test Matches: 22 | Highest Individual Innings: 226 (Azhar Ali) | Best Bowling Figure in an Innings: 8/39 (Taijul Islam) | Highest Team innings: 730/6d | Lowest Team Innings: 87
Bangladesh’s Test record (SBNCS): Win: 6 | Lost: 13 | Draw: 3
Sri Lanka’s Test record (SBNCS): Win: 3 | Lost: 0 | Draw: 0.
Read Nayeem added to Test squad to replace injured Mehidy
Recent Test records of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka
Neither team has had a good record in the longer-version format in recent years. Bangladesh have lost eight of their eleven Test matches since 2021, winning only two. On the contrary, Sri Lanka have lost five of their eleven Test matches since 2021, while winning three.
Both sides have failed to perform well in the Test format. Some of Bangladesh's prominent players have continued to skip Test series following the post covid-19 phase. On the other hand, Sri Lanka have failed to compete as a unit. The hosts should be in a stronger position to put the visitors under strain since all of Bangladesh's senior players are available for this series.
Read Sri Lankan cricket team arrives in Dhaka
Bottom Line
Sri Lanka have the upper hand against Bangladesh in a head-to-head battle. A relatively inexperienced Lankan side will play a competitive Tigers Test team in the BAN vs SL Test Series 2022. This group should be confident about winning a Test series against Sri Lanka for the first time since they showed some potential in their previous away Test series.
However, this Sri Lankan team isn't as good as it once was, and their recent results have been disappointing. The visitors would face huge pressure from the hosts during the series. Therefore, Sri Lanka's chances of dominating Bangladesh in the next series are slim.
Read Mustafiz should play Tests, not pick and choose: Khaled Mahmud
Mosaddek or Nayeem: Who Should Play in CTG Test of BAN vs SL Series 2022?
A key member of Bangladesh's Test team, Mehidy Hasan Miraz suffered a finger injury while playing in a Dhaka Premier League match. According to the BCB's physio, Miraz's full recovery would take two to three weeks. Therefore, he was excluded from the Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. Mosaddek Hossain and Nayeem Hasan were chosen to replace the injured Miraz. Let's see who has the best longer-version record to earn a place in the playing XI of the BAN vs SL series 2022's Chattogram Test.
Test Records of Mosaddek Hossain and Nayeem Hasan
Mosaddek Hossain and Nayeem Hasan have both played Test cricket for Bangladesh. Nayeem Hasan is more consistent than Mosaddek in the Test format. Nayeem has appeared in seven Tests, whereas Mosaddek has only been in three. Nayeem Hasan is a specialist off-spinner, which is one of the reasons he plays more longer-version cricket than Mosaddek. Specialist players are given more preference in Test cricket than regular all-rounders.
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Test Profile of Mosaddek Hossain
Mosaddek made his Test debut in 2017 against Sri Lanka, and his most recent match was in September 2019 against Afghanistan. He has 164 runs and a 41-run average in three outings. Mosaddek has the highest score of 75 in this format, which he achieved against Sri Lanka. He is also a good off-spinner, especially in limited-version formats. Mosaddek is yet to take a wicket in a Test match.
Mosaddek Hossain’s Test Stats
Match
Runs
HS
Ave
50s
3
164
75
41.00
1
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
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Nayeem Hasan’s Test Profile
Nayeem Hasan made his Test debut against the West Indies in 2018, and his most recent encounter came in February 2021 against the same opponents. He is a promising off-spinner with 25 wickets at a strike rate of 26.24 in seven games. Nayeem has two fifers in his career, with his best bowling figures of 5/61 against the West Indies. Nayeem can also bat and he has the ability to play crucial knocks in the lower order.
Nayeem Hasan’s Test Stats
Match
Wickets
BBI
Ave
5W
7
25
5/61
26.24
2
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read Key Takeaways from the DPL 2022
Who would be a better fit for Bangladesh's team against Sri Lanka?
Given their respective Test performances, Nayeem Hasan should have the upper hand against Mosaddek Hossain. Nayeem is a wicket-taking off-spinner who may be even more devastating against the Lankan batting order in Bangladesh's conditions. Nayeem may be a potential match-winner on day four or five when the surface offers more bounce and turn for the slower bowlers. Furthermore, Nayeem's abilities as a batter in the lower order can help Bangladesh's innings.
Mosaddek Hossain, on the other hand, is a limited-overs specialized all-rounder, but his all-round abilities in the longer-version format may not be as impactful. Mosaddek can help with a good knock with the bat. Though, in bowling, he may not be the best choice because the Bangladesh team requires a proper off-spinner in their playing XI. In this scenario, Nayeem Hasan, rather than Mosaddek Hossain, would be the best pick to play the first Test in Chattogram.
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Test Schedule of BAN vs SL Series 2022
First Test: 15-19 May | Venue: Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram
Second Test: 23-17 May | Venue: Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium, Dhaka
Bottom Line
The head coach and captain usually have the final say when it comes to selecting players for a game. However, the opinions of the Bangladesh team management and senior players will be taken into account when picking the playing XI for the first Test of the BAN vs SL series 2022. Chattogram's pitch will most likely be more conducive to batting than Dhaka's.
Read BAN vs SL Series 2022: Bangladesh Test Squad Analysis
Therefore, adding a specialized spinner rather than a batting all-rounder might be a wiser option. However, the Bangladesh team may want to have a strong batting lineup. Anyone who will get the opportunity to play in the match should try to make the most of it by giving their all for the Bangladesh team.