This content has been archived. It may no longer be relevant

Bangladesh stunned New Zealand and won the first Test by 150 runs. The batters rose to the occasion while Taijul Isam picked up ten wickets and courtesy of the same, he was adjudged the Player of the Match. However, ahead of the second Test, Kiwi spinner Ish Sodhi voiced for a strong comeback and expects the team to perform better as they now have a better understanding of the conditions.

Meanwhile, the surface in Dhaka will favour the spinners heavily and hence, a thrilling contest is expected. Both teams have quality players of spin while with the ball, the likes of Sodhi, Taijul,  Ajaz, Mominul Haque or even Glenn Phillips can prove to be dangerous. However, playing on their home turf, Bangladesh should be confident of getting the job done and sealing the series. Meanwhile, here are the three cricketers who will be key for Bangladesh in the second Test:

3. Mushfiqur Rahim

The veteran stumper-batter played an important knock of 67 runs in the second innings as Bangladesh posted 338 runs on the board. Alongside skipper Najmul Shanto, he stitched an important partnership which ruled New Zealand out of the match. He would aim to repeat the same as his keeping skills too will come in handy in the second Test.

2. Najmul Shanto

The skipper led by example in the first Test. He hit an incredible century in the second innings but it’s leadership qualities that got the cricketing world talking. Head coach Chandika Hathurusingha too appreciated his qualities as a captain ahead of the second Test and believes that he has the potential to become an all-format captain. Thus, Shanto will be riding high on confidence and will aim to get the win and seal the series.

1. Taijul Islam

Kiwi batters couldn’t read Taijul in the first Test. He was spot on with his length and if he maintains that, the spinner can once again prove to be a massive threat for New Zealand. The condition in Dhaka will help him and that makes him more dangerous.