The two Test match series between West Indies and Bangladesh, part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, will begin on November 22 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua and Barbuda. The second Test will follow at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica, starting on November 30. Both teams aim to secure valuable WTC points as they look to climb the standings.

West Indies are currently eighth in the ICC men’s Test team rankings and languish at the bottom of the WTC 2023-25 standings with a points percentage of 18.52%. The team has played nine Tests in the ongoing cycle, recording just one win, two draws, and six losses. With only four more matches left in the cycle, they face a challenging road ahead to improve their standing.

Bangladesh, ranked ninth in the ICC men’s Test rankings, are positioned eighth in the WTC standings. In their ten matches so far, they have secured three wins and suffered seven losses. Despite their struggles, they have shown glimpses of potential and will aim to capitalize on the series against West Indies to boost their position in the championship.

West Indies Team: New faces and leadership amidst injury concerns

The West Indies will be led by Kraigg Brathwaite, who brings his experience and steady leadership to the fold. The team will feature a mix of familiar faces and exciting new talent. One such player is Justin Greaves, who returns to the squad following impressive performances in the domestic circuit. Alongside Greaves, off-spinner Kevin Sinclair also earns a spot in the squad, bolstering their spin options.

However, the West Indies will be without their seasoned all-rounder Jason Holder, who is currently sidelined with a shoulder injury. Holder’s absence will leave a significant gap in the team’s balance, particularly in terms of both batting depth and bowling attack. The West Indies will need to rely on their younger players and established bowlers like Kemar Roach and Alzarri Joseph to step up in Holder’s absence.

Bangladesh Team: Balanced attack led by Najmul Hossain Shanto

Bangladesh will be captained by Najmul Hossain Shanto, and the team looks well-balanced, particularly in the bowling department. The visitors are bringing a fresh pace attack to the forefront, with the promising young pacer Nahid Rana joining the experienced trio of Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam. This fast-bowling quartet will be crucial in challenging the West Indies batters, especially on a pitch that may provide assistance for pace.

In addition to the pace attack, Bangladesh’s spin department remains strong with experienced spinners Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam, who will be tasked with controlling the middle overs and breaking partnerships. The balance between pace and spin gives Bangladesh a competitive edge, and they will be aiming to make early breakthroughs in the opening Test.

Also READ: WI vs BAN 2024: West Indies’ best playing XI for the Test series against Bangladesh

Squads:

West Indies: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Joshua Da Silva (vice-captain), Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Tevin Imlach, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Mikyle Louis, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Kevin Sinclair, Jomel Warrican

Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vc), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque Showrab, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Jaker Ali Anik, Taijul Islam, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana, Hasan Murad

Bangladesh tour of West Indies 2024: Complete schedule and fixture details

Broadcast and Live Streaming Details:

• India: Fancode app and website.
• United Kingdom: TNT Sports 2 and TNT Sports
• Bangladesh: Toffee
• West Indies: ESPN, Disney plus
• South Africa: SuperSport (201), SuperSport (212)
• Pakistan: Tapmad
• New Zealand: Sky Sports 2

Also READ: WI vs BAN 2024: Bangladesh’s best XI for the Test series against West Indies

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