Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first in the initial Test against South Africa in Mirpur. The match signifies the first international cricket event in the country since political changes occurred in August. With points at stake in the World Test Championship, South Africa is currently sixth and Bangladesh seventh in the standings. The second Test will take place in Chattogram on October 29.
On Monday, in Mirpur, Bangladesh’s captain Najmul Hossain Shanto secured a victory at the toss and elected to bat first in the inaugural Test match of the series against South Africa. This match marks the first international cricket event in Bangladesh following a significant political shift in August, when a student-led movement resulted in the ousting of the former autocratic leader, Sheikh Hasina. The ongoing Test series contributes valuable points to the World Test Championship, with significant implications for the final scheduled to take place in England next year. Currently, South Africa occupies the sixth position in the championship standings, whereas Bangladesh is ranked seventh. The South African team, led by Aiden Markram in the absence of the injured Temba Bavuma, aims to make a strong impression in this match. The second Test is scheduled to be held in Chattogram on October 29. The starting lineups for each team are as follows: Bangladesh includes Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali, Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Hasan Mahmud. The South African side features Aiden Markram (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Ryan Rickelton, Matthew Breetzke, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Dane Piedt. The officiating umpires for the match include Joel Wilson from the West Indies and Nitin Menon from India, while the TV umpire is Langton Rusere from Zimbabwe. The match referee is Andy Pycroft, also from Zimbabwe.
This article reports on the first Test match between Bangladesh and South Africa, highlighting the political context surrounding the event as well as its significance in the World Test Championship framework. The match follows a recent political upheaval in Bangladesh that has created a notable moment in the country’s sporting history, underscoring the interplay between sport and societal change.
In summary, Bangladesh has begun the first Test match against South Africa on their home soil following a period of significant political change. The match not only serves as a key moment for Bangladeshi cricket but also plays a crucial role in the context of the World Test Championship standings. With both teams vying for essential points, the series promises to be a competitive and engaging contest for cricket enthusiasts.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
