The cricketing world is gearing up for an enthralling series between Pakistan and Bangladesh, with the first Test match scheduled to commence on August 21 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. This encounter promises to be a battle of wits and skills between two teams eager to make their mark on the international stage.

Pakistan’s home advantage

Playing in their own backyard, Pakistan will be buoyed by the enthusiastic support of their home crowd. The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, known for its conducive conditions for batting, could provide a platform for Pakistan’s star-studded batting lineup to showcase their prowess. The likes of Babar Azam, Abdullah Shafique, and Saud Shakeel will be eager to capitalize on the familiar surroundings and pile on the runs.

Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by the formidable duo of Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, will be aiming to exploit the conditions and create early breakthroughs. The experienced duo, along with the likes of Mohammad Ali, will be crucial in containing Bangladesh’s batting lineup and putting pressure on their inexperienced middle order.

Bangladesh’s quest for a series win

Bangladesh, having made significant strides in recent years, will be looking to upset the hosts and claim a historic series victory in Pakistan. Their batting lineup, led by the talented Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque, has the potential to challenge any bowling attack on their day. The experienced duo, along with the likes of Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan, will be key in providing stability and scoring crucial runs.

Bangladesh’s bowling attack, led by the spin duo of Shakib and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, will be crucial in containing Pakistan’s batting lineup. The experienced duo, along with the likes of Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan, will be aiming to exploit the conditions and create opportunities for wickets.

Also READ: PAK vs BAN 2024, 1st Test: Match Prediction, Dream11 Team, Fantasy Tips & Pitch Report | Pakistan vs Bangladesh

Key players to watch

Babar Azam (Pakistan): The world’s top-ranked ODI batter will be Pakistan’s key player. His ability to score runs consistently across all formats makes him a formidable opponent.
Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh): The all-rounder is a vital cog in Bangladesh’s team. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a match-winner.
Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan): The left-arm pacer is a rising star in world cricket. His ability to swing the ball both ways and generate pace makes him a nightmare for batters.
Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh): The experienced wicketkeeper-batsman is a vital member of Bangladesh’s batting lineup. His ability to play long innings and provide stability is crucial.

Test Stats and Records at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi:

Total Matches: 13
Matches won batting first: 3
Matches won bowling first: 6
Average 1st innings Score: 338
Average 2nd innings Score: 401
Average 3rd innings Score: 253
Average 4th innings Score: 192
Highest total recorded: 657/10 (101 Ov) by ENG vs PAK
Lowest total recorded:139/10 (41 Ov) by WI vs PAK
Highest score chased:220/8 (83.5 Ovs) By SL vs PAK
Lowest score defended:187/10 (62.2 Ovs) By ZIM vs PAK

Rawalpindi weather report

The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, where the Test match is scheduled to take place, is located in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The weather forecast for the match days, August 21-25, suggests a mix of sunny and cloudy conditions.

Here’s a breakdown of the expected weather:

Temperature: The average temperature during the day is expected to range from mid-30s to low 40s Celsius (high 90s to low 100s Fahrenheit).
Humidity: The humidity levels are expected to be moderate, with average levels ranging from 40% to 60%. This means that while it won’t be overly uncomfortable, players and spectators may experience some perspiration.
Precipitation: There is a low chance of rain during the match. However, isolated showers or thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, especially in the afternoon or evening. If rain does occur, it is likely to be brief and not significantly impact the match.
Wind: The wind is expected to be light to moderate, with average speeds ranging from 5 to 15 kilometers per hour (3 to 9 miles per hour). This means that there should be minimal disruption to the game due to wind.

Overall, the weather conditions for the first Test match are expected to be favourable for cricket. The temperatures are comfortable, the humidity is moderate, and the chance of rain is low.

Rawalpindi Pitch Report

The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is traditionally known for producing pitches that favor batting. Based on historical trends, we can expect the pitch for the Test match to offer good batting conditions. However, the exact nature of the pitch will depend on factors such as the preparation and the weather conditions leading up to the game.

Given the historical trend at Rawalpindi, it is likely that the pitch will be conducive to batting. However, the exact nature of the pitch will become clearer as the match progresses.

Head-to-head record between Pakistan and Bangladesh in Test cricket:

Matches Played: 13
Pakistan Wins: 12
Bangladesh Wins: 0
Drawn Matches: 1
Pakistan’s Highest Total Against Bangladesh: 628
Pakistan’s Lowest Total Against Bangladesh: 175
Bangladesh’s Highest Total Against Pakistan: 555/6
Bangladesh’s Lowest Total Against Pakistan: 87

Playing XI of both teams

Pakistan:  Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel (vc), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali.

Bangladesh (Probable XI): Litton Das, Zakir Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mominul Haque, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Khaled Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Taijul Islam.

Also READ: PCB announces commentary panel for the Test series against Bangladesh

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