Bangladesh has historically struggled to make an impact in Test cricket on Indian soil, with their past performances falling far short of expectations. Over the years, their visits to India have resulted in humiliating defeats. Despite some valiant efforts in Bangladesh, their away record against India remains dismal. With a new Test series on the horizon, the Tigers face a monumental challenge.
In 2017, Bangladesh showed glimpses of resilience when Mushfiqur Rahim’s determined 127 and Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s 51 helped the team fight back at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. However, their efforts fell short as Virat Kohli’s double century led India to a commanding 230-run victory. The scenario worsened for Bangladesh when they toured India again in 2019 for a two-match Test series.
The first Test in Indore saw Mayank Agarwal’s explosive 243-run knock dismantle Bangladesh, leading to a crushing defeat by an innings and 130 runs. While Abu Jayed Rahi made an impression with the ball, the Tigers’ batting lineup crumbled under pressure. Things took a turn for the worse when they faced India in the Day-Night Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Ishant Sharma’s fiery bowling left Bangladesh in disarray, adding to the woes initiated by Kohli and Mayank Agarwal in the previous matches. Mushfiqur Rahim’s 74 in the second innings was a lone bright spot, but it was not enough to prevent another heavy defeat by an innings and 46 runs.
As Bangladesh prepares to face India again, the odds are stacked against them. India has not lost a home Test series in 12 years, with even strong teams like England and Australia struggling to overcome the dominant Indian side in their backyard. Bangladesh has yet to defeat India in 13 Test matches, and they are not considered favorites in the upcoming series.
However, recent achievements offer a glimmer of hope. Najmul Shanto’s men recently made history by whitewashing Pakistan in a Test series, showing that upsets are possible. The upcoming match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai could provide an opportunity for redemption, with the pitch likely to favor spin. Shakib Al Hasan, despite recent struggles with the bat, brings confidence from his 5-wicket haul against Somerset, and with support from spinners like Mehidy Hasan, Nayeem Hasan, and Taijul Islam, Bangladesh may pose a challenge.
While a victory remains an uphill task, Bangladesh will look to push India to the edge and leave with their heads held high.
