Mumbai: Jasprit Bumrah’s inclusion in India’s full-strength squad for the Bangladesh series underscores the seriousness with which the Indian cricket team views their upcoming opponents. Traditionally, India has managed Bumrah’s workload through strategic rest and rotation, especially with high-stakes contests such as those against Australia on the horizon. However, this selection signals India’s intent to leave no room for complacency against Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s recent cricketing exploits, notably their historic 2-0 triumph over Pakistan, have revealed their growing prowess in foreign conditions. This performance highlighted their resilience and ability to navigate tough situations, a trait that former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes makes them formidable adversaries. Jaffer’s deep involvement with Bangladesh cricket, including roles in the Dhaka Premier League and various coaching positions with the Bangladesh Cricket Board since 2019, provides him with a unique perspective on their evolution.

Jaffer has observed significant advancements in Bangladesh cricket firsthand. He attributes their improved performance in pressure situations to a transformed mindset. Historically known for excelling at home, Bangladesh has recently demonstrated their ability to compete effectively on foreign soil, as evidenced by victories in New Zealand and Pakistan. Their limited-overs performances abroad have shown flashes of brilliance, guided by seasoned players like Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim, whose experience has been invaluable.

Despite never having defeated India in a Test match, Bangladesh has been closing the gap, as evidenced by the fiercely contested 2022 Test series where India emerged victorious with a 2-0 margin. The emergence of players like Mehidy Hasan Mirza and Najmal Hossain Shanto, both 26, has significantly strengthened the team. Their depth in batting was particularly evident during the Pakistan series, where they recovered from a precarious 26/6 position in the second Test. Jaffer recalls insightful conversations with Mehidy and Shanto during his tenure as a senior player and coach.

Jaffer is particularly impressed by Mehidy’s indomitable spirit. “Mehidy has that fighting spirit; he has demonstrated it repeatedly. Even in ODIs, if he opens the innings, he often scores centuries. He is relentless in all facets of the game—batting, bowling, and fielding,” Jaffer noted.

Bangladesh’s traditional reliance on spin is evolving as they develop a more balanced approach, embracing fast bowling to enhance their performance on bouncy pitches. This strategic shift was evident in their series win against Afghanistan on fast, bouncy tracks where pacers like Ebadot Hossain and Taskin Ahmed shone.

Jaffer credits this transformation to influential coaching figures such as Allan Donald and Courtney Walsh. Under their guidance, fast bowlers like Ebadot Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and emerging talents like Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam have flourished. With a contingent of bowlers capable of delivering at speeds exceeding 140 km/h, Bangladesh now boasts a formidable pace attack essential for success in diverse conditions.

In conclusion, India’s decision to field a full-strength squad against Bangladesh reflects their recognition of Bangladesh’s growing threat in international cricket. This shift towards a balanced team composition and the development of a potent fast-bowling arsenal mark significant milestones in Bangladesh’s cricketing journey, making them worthy adversaries on any stage.