2nd Test: Kanpur pitch to be reportedly slower than Chennai
The second Test between India and Bangladesh is set to take place at Kanpur's Green Park Stadium. The pitch conditions are expected to be significantly different from those experienced in the first Test at Chepauk Stadium, Chennai. Both teams are likely to abandon their third seamer due to these changes. As per ESPNcricinfo, the upcoming match will feature a black soil pitch known for its low bounce and carry, a stark contrast from the red soil surface used in Chennai.
Green Park's pitch to be flatter with lower bounce
The pitch at Green Park is expected to be flatter with a significantly lower bounce than what was witnessed during the first Test in Chennai. As the match progresses, the surface is predicted to become even slower and lower. This change in conditions could impact both teams' strategies for the second Test, potentially leading them to drop a fast bowler from their lineup. Notably, India recorded a massive 280-run win in the Chennai Test.
India may opt for spinners in 2nd Test
India may consider either Kuldeep Yadav or Axar Patel to replace a fast bowler in the second Test. The decision will depend on whether they want to rest Jasprit Bumrah or Mohammed Siraj. There's also a possibility of Yash Dayal making his Test debut, given his familiarity with Kanpur conditions through his Ranji Trophy experience with Uttar Pradesh.
Bangladesh's strategy for 2nd Test
On the other hand, Bangladesh's selector Hannan Sarkar has expressed uncertainty over Shakib Al Hasan's participation due to an injury. If Shakib is unable to play, offspinner Nayeem Hasan may be included in the squad. Alternatively, left-arm spinner Taijul Islam could replace Nahid Rana if Shakib plays as an all-rounder despite his injury. These potential changes reflect Bangladesh's adaptive strategy in response to the anticipated pitch conditions in Kanpur.
Kanpur's pitch may favor batters in 2nd Test
The pitch conditions at Green Park could potentially favor the batters, allowing them to score big without any unexpected turns from the surface. This was evident in the 2021 Test when Shreyas Iyer scored a century and a 50 on his debut. Similarly, Tom Latham demonstrated exceptional defense against Indian spinners, scoring twin half-centuries. These past performances indicate that the upcoming match may provide an advantageous platform for high-scoring innings.
