Test cricket returns to Chattogram as Bangladesh lock horns with Zimbabwe in the second and final Test of the two-match series beginning today at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. After a shock three-wicket defeat in the opening Test, the hosts are now under pressure to level the series and salvage some pride, while the visitors are chasing a historic clean sweep that would mark their first-ever Test series win on Bangladeshi soil.
The match is set to commence at 10:00 am (BST).
Zimbabwe's stunning win in the first Test powered by Blessing Muzarabani's nine-wicket haul, marked a bold statement of their red-ball resurgence. For Bangladesh, another defeat would mean a humiliating home series loss to a lower-ranked side and further damage to their already fragile Test reputation.
Bangladesh are likely to make several changes in a bid to bounce back. Anamul Haque Bijoy may replace one of the out-of-form openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam, while Nayeem Hasan is expected to return in place of Nahid Rana to strengthen the spin attack alongside Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam. The middle order remains steady with Shanto, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim and Jaker Ali, though Mushfiqur's poor form is a concern. In the pace department, Tanzim Hasan Sakib could replace Hasan Mahmud to join Khaled Ahmed with the new ball.
Zimbabwe are likely to stick with their winning combination with Sean Williams, Craig Ervine, and Blessing Muzarabani leading the way. Their batting lineup featuring Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Nick Welch, Wessly Madhevere and Nyasha Mayavo behind the stumps may lack big names but has shown enough grit against the Bangladesh bowling. Muzarabani remains the biggest threat with the ball supported by Richard Ngarava, Victor Nyauchi, and Wellington Masakadza.
The Test rivalry between these two sides has been evenly poised with eight wins each from 19 matches and three draws.
However, ZACS is typically favourable for batters early on before gradually offering more turn for spinners. Rain and morning cloud cover over the first three days could bring the seamers into play as well. Winning the toss and batting first may offer a clear edge but both sides will need to adjust smartly as the match progresses.
