Bangladesh Set to Host Zimbabwe in Two-Test Series
Bangladesh is set to host Zimbabwe for an engaging two-Test cricket series, with the matches scheduled to commence on April 20, 2023. Initially, these fixtures were slated for April 2024, but the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) requested a change, opting instead to have Zimbabwe play a five-match T20I series during the original dates. This alteration brings a new dynamic to the cricket calendar and promises to deliver thrilling cricket to fans.
Zimbabwe’s Arrival and Venue Details
Zimbabwe is scheduled to touch down in Bangladesh on April 15, giving the team ample time to acclimatize to the conditions. The first Test will be held at the picturesque Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, a venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and strong local support. The second Test will take place at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram, starting on April 28. Notably, these matches will not be part of the World Test Championship (WTC) as Zimbabwe are not participants in the WTC.
Zimbabwe’s Recent Struggles in Test Cricket
Zimbabwe has faced significant challenges in Test cricket in recent times. The team has experienced a run of poor form, losing eight out of their last ten Tests and drawing the other two. This year alone, Zimbabwe has played two Tests against Afghanistan and Ireland, both of which ended in losses. The team’s last Test victory was a distant memory, occurring four years ago in March 2021, when they defeated Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi. Despite these setbacks, the team remains determined to turn their fortunes around.
Bangladesh’s Test Performance
In contrast, Bangladesh has found success in Test cricket, albeit primarily away from home. The team recently triumphed in Pakistan with a 2-0 series win and shared a 1-1 series draw in the West Indies. However, Bangladesh’s home form has been less impressive. The last home Test victory for Bangladesh was in November 2023, when they defeated New Zealand in Sylhet. Since then, they have faced losses to both Sri Lanka and South Africa in 2024. This series against Zimbabwe presents an opportunity for Bangladesh to re-establish their home dominance.
Previous Encounters Between Bangladesh and Zimbabwe
The last time Bangladesh hosted a Test match against Zimbabwe was in February 2020, a game that ended with a convincing innings and 106 runs victory for the home team. The most recent Test encounter between the two sides took place in July 2021 in Harare, where Bangladesh emerged victorious by 220 runs. Historically, Bangladesh holds a narrow 8-7 lead in the 18 Tests played between the two countries. Zimbabwe’s last Test win against Bangladesh was in 2018, indicating a competitive and closely-fought rivalry.
Anticipation and Expectations for the Series
The upcoming series is keenly anticipated by cricket enthusiasts, given the contrasting fortunes of both teams in recent Test matches. Bangladesh will look to capitalize on their home advantage and build on their historical edge over Zimbabwe. For Zimbabwe, the series offers a chance to break their losing streak and rediscover the form that has eluded them in recent years. As both teams prepare for the challenge, the cricketing community will be watching with keen interest, hoping for a series that is both competitive and entertaining.
