Bangladesh to play seven red-ball matches to prepare for their 2023-25 WTC cycle - Cricket Winner

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is making a significant strategic shift by lining up seven red-ball games for Bangladesh, transitioning the focus from T20Is to the World Test Championship (WTC) for the remainder of the year. This decision underscores the importance of Test cricket and Bangladesh’s ambition to excel in the WTC.

Bangladesh’s upcoming Test series

Bangladesh has a packed schedule ahead with Test series against formidable opponents like Pakistan, India, South Africa, and the West Indies. These matches are crucial as they fall within the 2023-25 WTC cycle, presenting an opportunity for Bangladesh to improve its standings and gain valuable experience against top-tier teams.

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Domestic Preparation: Chattogram matches

To prepare for these high-stakes encounters, the Test cricketers will play three four-day matches in Chattogram next month. These matches are more than just practice games; they are a critical part of the team’s preparation strategy, allowing players to adapt to the demands of red-ball cricket and refine their skills.

International Preparation: Pakistan A series

Following the domestic matches, Bangladesh A will face Pakistan A in two four-day matches in Darwin from July 19 to 29, and another two in Pakistan in August. These games will offer the players exposure to international conditions and competition.

New Zealand A tour of Bangladesh

In addition to the Pakistan A series, New Zealand A is scheduled to tour Bangladesh in August or September. These matches will further aid in preparing the players by providing them with continuous high-quality opposition, ensuring they remain in peak form.

Training Camps in Chattogram and Sylhet

Since May, Bangladesh players have been involved in intensive training camps in Chattogram and Sylhet. According to BCB’s cricket operations chairman Jalal Yunus, the Test players are “progressing well” in these camps. The rigorous training sessions are designed to sharpen their skills and enhance their endurance, vital for the grueling Test schedule ahead.

Test Series against Pakistan

The senior men’s team is likely to travel to Pakistan on August 17 for two Tests, with venues and dates yet to be confirmed. Historically, matches between Bangladesh and Pakistan have been intense, and this series is expected to be no different.

Test Series against India

Following the Pakistan series, Bangladesh will play two Tests against India in Chennai and Kanpur. India, known for its formidable Test side, will provide a stern challenge. These matches will be crucial for Bangladesh to gauge their progress and make necessary adjustments ahead of subsequent WTC fixtures.

Additional series against Afghanistan

Bangladesh could potentially tour India twice in three months if they agree to Afghanistan Cricket Board’s revised schedule for two white-ball series in late July. Although primarily focused on ODIs and T20Is, this tour is being considered despite concerns about playing conditions in Noida during July.

Home Test Series against South Africa

In October, Bangladesh will host South Africa for two home Tests. These matches are significant not only for the WTC standings but also for boosting the team’s confidence and morale with home-ground advantage.

Test series tour to West Indies

The year will culminate with a full series in the West Indies in November and December. This series will test Bangladesh’s adaptability and consistency, with varied playing conditions and strong opposition.