The much-anticipated Test series between Bangladesh and South Africa is set to begin, with the first Test being held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, starting on Monday, October 21. As part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, this two-match series holds immense importance for both teams as they aim to stay alive in the WTC Final race.
Bangladesh’s Drive for Redemption
Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh is coming off a tough series loss to India, which saw them slip to seventh in the WTC standings. Playing on home turf, Bangladesh will be eager to bounce back with a strong performance against a formidable South African side. The team will rely on the leadership of Shanto and key players like Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das to turn their fortunes around in this pivotal series.
South Africa’s Challenge in Bangladesh
Aiden Markram’s South Africa is also under pressure, currently sitting in sixth place in the WTC table. Despite their recent 1-0 series victory over West Indies, the Proteas face a tough battle to climb higher in the standings. This marks South Africa’s first tour to Bangladesh since 2015, where both matches ended in a draw. South Africa holds an impressive record in Bangladesh, having won 4 out of 6 Tests in their previous three visits.
A Crucial Series in the World Test Championship
With both teams still having a slim chance to qualify for the WTC Final, this series has garnered significant interest from cricket fans globally. The clash between two competitive sides, each aiming to secure valuable points, adds an extra layer of excitement to this red-ball contest. Cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the outcome, knowing that each match will play a critical role in shaping the WTC standings.
Bangladesh vs South Africa 1st Test: Team Squads
Both teams have named strong squads for this crucial Test series. Here’s a look at the line-ups:
Bangladesh Squad:
- Zakir Hasan
- Shadman Islam
- Mominul Haque
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain)
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Litton Das (wicketkeeper)
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Taijul Islam
- Hasan Mahmud
- Taskin Ahmed
- Hasan Murad
- Nahid Rana
- Jaker Ali
- Nayeem Hasan
- Mahmudul Hasan Joy
South Africa Squad:
- Tony de Zorzi
- Aiden Markram (captain)
- Tristan Stubbs
- Dewald Brevis
- David Bedingham
- Ryan Rickelton
- Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper)
- Matthew Breetzke
- Wiaan Mulder
- Senuran Muthusamy
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Lungi Ngidi
- Dane Paterson
- Dane Piedt
Match Timing for the Bangladesh vs South Africa 1st Test
The BAN vs SA 1st Test is scheduled to start at 10 AM local time in Bangladesh, with the toss happening at 9:30 AM. For viewers in India, the match will start at 10 AM IST, while South African fans can tune in from 6 AM SAST to catch all the live action.
Where to Watch Bangladesh vs South Africa 1st Test
In India:
Cricket fans in India can watch the Bangladesh vs South Africa live streaming exclusively on the FanCode app and website. Although the Test series opener will not be available on television, FanCode provides a comprehensive digital experience. Fans can purchase a match pass for INR 25, or opt for a monthly or yearly subscription for more sporting events.
In Bangladesh:
For viewers in Bangladesh, the Bangladesh vs South Africa series will be televised on T Sports and GTV, providing full coverage of the match, including pre- and post-game analysis.
In South Africa:
In South Africa, SuperSport will broadcast the series on various channels, including SuperSport GrandStand, SuperSport Cricket, and SuperSport 490, ensuring cricket enthusiasts don’t miss any key moments of this gripping series.
What to Expect from the Bangladesh vs South Africa Series
With both teams battling for vital WTC points, this series promises to be a thrilling contest. Bangladesh, with home advantage, will look to capitalize on familiar conditions, while South Africa, known for their aggressive and disciplined style of play, will aim to maintain their unbeaten record on Bangladeshi soil. Key players such as Litton Das and Kagiso Rabada will be in the spotlight, with the outcome likely hinging on their performances.
Expect intense competition as both teams fight to keep their WTC Final hopes alive in what is sure to be an engaging and fiercely contested series.
Conclusion
The Bangladesh vs South Africa Test series is shaping up to be a highly anticipated event in the world of cricket, especially with its importance in the World Test Championship. As both teams look to improve their standings and push toward a potential WTC Final spot, fans from India, Bangladesh, South Africa, and beyond will be eagerly watching. Make sure to tune in to witness all the excitement, whether via live streaming or television broadcast, and enjoy top-class cricket action from Dhaka.
