Bangladesh vs Afghanistan, preview: Rashid Khan on cusp of record
Bangladesh host Afghanistan in the one-off Test match to be held at Chittagong from Thursday onwards. Both teams are well sorted in spin and that could determine the result of this match. This is the third Test match for Afghanistan in their history and a first against the Tigers. Here we present the complete match preview.
Bangladesh in need of a revival
Bangladesh are in requirement of some revival of sorts after some disappointing results across formats. They also lost their previous Test series against New Zealand earlier this year. However, under star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, the Tigers will want to win this at home. Bangladesh will want their senior stars to lead by example and make life hard for Afghans.
Rashid set to be youngest Test captain ever
Rashid is set to be the youngest Test captain ever. He will surpass Tatenda Taibu's record which the Zimbabwean set in 2004. Taibu (20 years, 358 days) had the record. However, Rashid (20 years, 350 days), will be eight days younger while leading the Afghans.
Afghanistan will want to show their Test credentials
It's too early for the Afghans in the longest format. However, they will want to show why they should belong here. Afghanistan will be led by youngster Rashid Khan and his captaincy will be tested. The side has won one Test and lost one prior to this match. It will be a test for their batsmen on a difficult pitch.
Pitch report, conditions and timing
Spin could determine the Test match and both sides have some quality options available. It will be a real test for the batsmen to dictate against a strong spin show. According to reports, rain is expected to fall during all five days of the match. One could see a lot of stoppages and delays. The match is set to start at 9:30 AM IST.
Dream11: Shakib, Rashid lead a strong unit
We have chosen Mominul Haque and Rahmat Shah upfront to lead this Dream11 side. They are followed by Asghar Afghan, Mahmudullah and wicket-keeper batsman Ikram Ali Khil. Mohammad Nabi, Shakib (captain) and Mehidy Hasan are the three all-rounders and add more depth. Rashid (vice-captain), Shapoor Zadran and Taskin Ahmed are the primary bowlers. The side has depth and a desired balance.
View point: What the coaches had to say?
"Their spinners are very threatening. We have seen in the shorter format how dangerous they can be. It's definitely a different format, but they will definitely be threatening," said Bangladesh coach Russell Domingo. "We have massive respect for Bangladesh, they are a level above us, but we are not scared of them," said Afghan interim coach Andy Moles.
