As the Sri Lankan cricket team continues its tour of Bangladesh, the stage is set for the commencement of the Test series in the picturesque locale of Sylhet. Following a riveting prelude that saw Sri Lanka clinching the T20I series and Bangladesh making a formidable comeback to secure the ODI series, the focus now shifts to the pinnacle of cricket's endurance and strategy, that is the Test matches.
Recent encounters tip the scale in favour of Sri Lanka, who boast 3 victories and 2 draws in the last 5 head-to-head Test matches against Bangladesh. Yet, history awaits as Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, seeks only its second Test win against the island nation.
With Dhananjaya de Silva guiding the Sri Lankan side, they will be hopeful of a win and secure valuable points in the World Test Championship table where they currently sit at the bottom with 2 losses in 2 matches. Explore further as top bookmakers in India are offering great odds for this series.
Sri Lanka has won the majority of the matches against Bangladesh, so they're more likely to win this one too if it doesn't end in a draw.
The betting tip is...
Draw no bet - Sri Lanka.
The squad presents a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising talents for the upcoming Test series. With Nahid Rana, the team injects fresh pace into its bowling arsenal, especially noteworthy as Rana is currently the fastest bowler in Bangladesh. His entry, along with Litton Das's return after a hiatus, strengthens the squad considerably.
Rana's early career, marked by an impressive first-class record, signals potential, as does Mushfik Hasan's inclusion. With Ebadot Hossain sidelined due to injury and Taskin Ahmed absent from the Test scene, the stage is set for these young pacers to gain valuable experience. Additionally, Shahadat Hossain Dipu is earmarked as a future batting stalwart.
Among the top performers, Mushfiqur Rahim stands out with 744 runs from 8 matches, boasting an average of 57.23. Litton Das follows closely with 664 runs, demonstrating consistent form at an average of 47.43. In the bowling department, Mehidy Hasan Miraz leads with 31 wickets in 8 matches, showcasing his prowess as a spinner, while Shoriful Islam has also made significant contributions with 14 wickets in 6 matches.
Shanto, Das and Rahim are the key players.
Predicted Lineup: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Litton Das, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Shahadot Hossain, Melody Hasan Miraz, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan
Sri Lanka's squad features several senior players and former captains. Dhananjaya de Silva, who acknowledges the challenges of leading such a seasoned group, is set to captain the side. His role as a solid all-rounder will be crucial, alongside Wanindu Hasaranga, who returns from Test retirement to bolster the team's lineup.
Angelo Mathews' inclusion adds further depth, providing another reliable all-round option. This experienced core is pivotal for Sri Lanka's performance in the series.
Leading the performance charts for Sri Lanka is Dinesh Chandimal, with an impressive tally of 943 runs from 10 matches, maintaining a stellar average of 78.58. Dimuth Karunaratne closely follows, contributing 921 runs and exemplifying consistent top-order batting with an average of 57.56.
Karunaratne, Chandimal and de Silva are the key players.
Predicted Lineup: Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Wanindu Hasaranga, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando
With a blend of seasoned performers and emerging talents, Bangladesh looks to capitalise on home advantage and record their second win against the Lankans in Tests. Litton Das's return and Mushfiqur Rahim's form add to their strength.
Sri Lanka, buoyed by the return of Hasaranga and the experience of Karunaratne and Chandimal, aims to leverage their massive historical advantage winning 18 Test matches while losing just one.
Considering the teams' recent performances, the match is likely to be a close encounter, possibly ending in a draw.