Bangladesh will host South Africa for a two-Test series starting on October 21, 2024. The series, taking place at Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, will see Bangladesh adjusting to changes in their coaching staff and player availability, while South Africa will be without captain Temba Bavuma due to injury.
South Africa is set to face Bangladesh in a two-Test series commencing at Sher-e-Bangla Stadium on October 21, 2024. This series follows their last encounter in 2022, where South Africa secured victories in both matches, maintaining an undefeated record against Bangladesh since their first encounter in 2002. Prior to this series, Bangladesh is grappling with significant off-field issues. They recently concluded a successful Test series against Pakistan, yet this will be their inaugural series under new head coach Phil Simmons, who replaced Chandika Hathurusinghe following allegations related to player misconduct during the 2023 Cricket World Cup. Additionally, prominent player Shakib Al Hasan has withdrawn due to ongoing political protests in Dhaka. South Africa, too, faces its challenges, with captain Temba Bavuma sidelined due to a left tricep injury, requiring Aiden Markram to step in as captain. They have made necessary adjustments by including Dewald Brevis and Lungi Ngidi in the squad. South Africa’s last Test match was in August, where they emerged victorious 1-0 against the West Indies in a two-match series. After the first Test in Dhaka, the action will shift to Chattogram for the second Test set to begin on October 29, 2024.
The encounter between Bangladesh and South Africa marks a notable point in both teams’ cricketing journeys. Established in 2002, the relationship has heavily favored South Africa, which has yet to concede a Test defeat to Bangladesh. The backdrop of upcoming matches is defined by significant team changes; Bangladesh’s new coaching staff and player withdrawals coincide with South Africa’s captaincy shift due to injury. Such dynamics introduce intrigue to the series, setting the stage for a critical showdown.
In summary, the Test series between Bangladesh and South Africa promises to be an intriguing competition, particularly given the recent changes within both teams. With Bangladesh adapting to a new coaching staff and South Africa addressing key player absences, the unfolding matches may yield unexpected outcomes as the teams vie for their respective objectives in the cricketing arena.
Original Source: www.wisden.com
