Bangladesh faces another formidable challenge in Kanpur as they take on India in the second Test of the series. Despite their impressive 2-0 victory in Pakistan, Bangladesh was outplayed by India in Chennai, losing by 280 runs.
India’s batting depth was on full display in Chennai, with three centurions and two half-centurions despite Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s modest contributions. Their bowling attack also proved formidable, with the seamers and spinners sharing 17 wickets.
Kanpur presents a different challenge for Bangladesh. The pitch is expected to be flatter and slower, favoring spinners in the latter stages of the match. However, rain is forecast for the first three days, which could impact the pitch and team compositions.
Despite the odds, Bangladesh has shown signs of promise. Their openers provided a solid start in the second innings in Chennai, and Najmul Hossain Shanto returned to form with an 82. Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz also made starts in the first innings.
India will be keen to fine-tune their game ahead of tougher opponents in the coming months. Shubman Gill, who scored an unbeaten 119 in the second innings in Chennai, will be eager to prove his worth at No. 3.
Shakib Al Hasan remains a key figure for Bangladesh. Despite concerns about his workload and effectiveness, he is expected to play a significant role in Kanpur.
India may consider playing three spinners, with Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja all in contention. Bangladesh could also opt for three spinners, with Taijul Islam potentially replacing Nahid Rana.
The pitch in Kanpur is expected to be slow and low-bouncing, with the possibility of rain affecting the match. India has a strong record at home, with more wins than losses in Test history. Ravindra Jadeja is one wicket away from becoming the seventh Indian to take 300 Test wickets.
