Bangladesh consider spin-heavy strategy for Chattogram Test

Second Test against Zimbabwe will begin on April 28

FE Team | Published: April 25, 2025 22:46:14

Ahead of the Chattogram Test against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh called left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam, indicating that the hosts are considering a spin-heavy attack to save the series, report agencies.
With pacer Nahid Rana unavailable due to his participation in the Pakistan Super League, selectors have opted not to replace him with another seamer.
Instead, Tanvir's inclusion proves the think tank's assessment of Chattogram's spin-friendly surface and the relative ineffectiveness of the fast bowlers in the first Test.
"That leaves room for an additional spinner," Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain told reporters, noting that the move is also a precaution in case of injury or concussion.
Tanvir, who has largely featured in white-ball cricket, is seen as a more effective option than left-arm spinner Hasan Murad for this particular Test.
"Tanvir offers more in terms of loop and flight," Ashraf explained.
Meanwhile, after a thrilling three-wicket victory in the first Test at Sylhet, Zimbabwe have taken a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series against hosts Bangladesh. With history on their side, the visitors now set their sights on sealing the series in Chattogram.
The win marked Zimbabwe's first Test victory over Bangladesh in nearly seven years-their last also came at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium back in 2018. On Wednesday, they successfully chased a 174-run target in 50.1 overs on the fourth day to pull off the dramatic win.
Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine expressed confidence in his team's momentum going into the second and final Test. "This win gives us real belief. Now we know we're capable of reaching our goals," said Ervine. "But we have to start fresh in Chattogram and reassess everything. Our mindset will be crucial there, especially after the win in Sylhet."
With the victory, Zimbabwe only need a draw in the second Test to secure the series. Bangladesh, on the other hand, are under pressure to bounce back and level the series. Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, the hosts must win the Chattogram Test to avoid a series defeat at home.
The second Test will begin on April 28 at the Bir Shreshtha Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram. While Zimbabwe aim to wrap up the series, Bangladesh are preparing for a must-win encounter to restore parity.