Following the conclusion of their Test series against the West Indies, the Bangladesh national cricket team has commenced their tour of South Africa. The team is traveling in two batches, with the final group departing today. The upcoming tour features two Test matches, both forming part of the ICC World Test Championship. The opening match is set for November 15 at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, followed by the second Test on November 23 in Centurion.
Formidable Opponents
Bangladesh faces a stern test against an in-form South African squad. Temba Bavuma’s team recently defeated Australia 2-1 in a three-match home series. The Proteas secured victories by an innings and 31 runs and 176 runs respectively, propelling them to the top of the ICC Test rankings and second place in the World Test Championship standings.
Historical Context
- During their last tour of South Africa in 2022, Bangladesh suffered significant defeats under Mominul Haque, losing by 220 runs in Durban and 332 runs in Port Elizabeth.
- Bangladesh has played eight Tests across four tours in South Africa, losing every single match.
- Across 16 total encounters between the two nations, Bangladesh remains winless; South Africa has claimed 14 victories, with the remaining two matches ending in draws.
The current squad, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, now faces the daunting challenge of attempting to rewrite this unfavorable historical record in challenging overseas conditions.
