Chennai, Sep 16 (PTI) – The spotlight was firmly on emerging fast bowler Nahid Rana as Bangladesh commenced their rigorous preparations for the upcoming two-Test series against India, set to begin on September 19. The team engaged in an intense practice session at the renowned MA Chidambaram Stadium on Monday.

Emboldened by their remarkable 2-0 series triumph over Pakistan on foreign soil, the Bangladesh Tigers are brimming with confidence. However, they now face an arduous challenge against the world’s second-ranked team, India, who currently lead the World Test Championship standings. Najmul Hossain Shanto’s squad is well aware that this series will be their toughest test yet.

Bangladesh displayed immense determination and resilience during their historic victory in Pakistan, but playing against India on home turf presents a significantly greater challenge. India has been invincible at home, securing 17 consecutive Test series wins since 2012. Historically, Bangladesh has struggled against India, with 11 losses and only 2 draws in their 13 Test encounters so far.

After arriving in Chennai on Sunday, the Bangladesh team quickly got into action. Their batsmen showcased aggressive intent against net bowlers and throwdown specialists. Key players like Litton Das, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, and Shadman Islam focused on refining their footwork and executed some powerful straight drives during the session.

Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim, who was instrumental in Bangladesh’s first-ever Test win over Pakistan with a monumental 191 in Rawalpindi, also had a productive stint in the nets. His experience and form will be crucial for Bangladesh in this challenging series.

Spinners are expected to play a pivotal role in the two-Test series. Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan were actively involved in the practice session. Notably absent was Shakib Al Hasan, a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s spin attack. Shakib is set to join the team on Tuesday after an impressive stint in the County Championship with Surrey, where he claimed nine wickets and led his side to a significant 111-run victory.

Bangladesh’s pacers focused their training near the main square, with 21-year-old Nahid Rana drawing particular attention. Rana’s exceptional performance in Pakistan, where he took six wickets in two Tests, has made him a key player to watch. His ability to generate extra bounce from a high arm action poses a unique challenge for opposition batsmen.

To prepare for Rana’s threat, India has brought in Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar to help their batsmen acclimate to the bounce that Chepauk’s red soil might offer. This strategic move underscores the importance of preparation against specific threats.

The Bangladesh team returned from a brief break at home following their successful series in Pakistan, which boosted them to fourth place in the World Test Championship rankings. Before traveling to India, they also attended a comprehensive training camp in Dhaka.

As they gear up for this crucial series, Bangladesh is focused on building upon their recent successes and proving their mettle against one of the strongest teams in world cricket.