Kolkata: To entertain thoughts of defeating India on their own soil, a team must first excel in their batting. However, those familiar with the challenge understand that such an endeavor is impossible without high-quality bowling. Over the past 15 years, India has played 67 Tests at home, losing only seven times. Apart from the innings defeat to South Africa at Nagpur in 2010, these losses have primarily been orchestrated by exceptional bowling performances—a statistic that underscores the critical role of bowlers in conquering India.

Despite this daunting history, Bangladesh enters the fray with a quiet confidence, fresh from an impressive series win against Pakistan on Pakistani soil. This victory was not merely a result of resilient batting but was significantly bolstered by well-coordinated and effective bowling efforts across both Tests.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain reflected on this before their departure for India, saying, “Our spin and pace are in a good frame. However, when comparing the teams, our pacers are relatively less experienced. Spin-wise, we are close to them, but experience-wise, they have the edge. Nonetheless, our spinners can adapt to any conditions, and I assure you that every player—be it pacers, spinners, or batters—will give a hundred percent. The difference will come when we play as a cohesive unit.”

Hossain’s words reflect cautious optimism, yet there is no denying that this might be Bangladesh’s most skilled bowling lineup to tour India. Among their ranks is the 21-year-old Nahid Rana, a fiery pacer capable of delivering short but impactful spells. His potential was evident in the second Test against Pakistan, where he took three wickets in three overs. Complementing him is Hasan Mahmud, whose ability to seam the ball on abrasive pitches proved troublesome for Pakistan’s top order.

More formidable still is the spin duo of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. This left-arm off-spin combination has historically troubled Indian batsmen and stands as Bangladesh’s trump card.

“Shakib has always been instrumental in Bangladesh cricket, offering us the flexibility to balance the team thanks to his all-round skills,” remarked Bangladesh head coach Chandika Hathurusingha on Tuesday. “His adaptability and experience are invaluable. Coming off a county stint, he is in great form.”

While Shakib remains a cornerstone of the team, Miraz is emerging as a standout player in his own right. The recent tour of Pakistan saw Miraz named Player of the Series after taking ten wickets and scoring two critical fifties that rescued Bangladesh from precarious positions.

“Miraz has been the most improved cricketer for Bangladesh over the past 5-6 years and is ready to step up whenever Shakib steps down. His batting has improved significantly, his bowling remains his primary strength, and his fielding has been exceptional,” Hathurusingha added.

“This is arguably the most well-rounded team Bangladesh has ever produced. We have covered numerous bases with a robust fast-bowling contingent and an experienced spin attack. Our batting lineup has great depth, and two of our spinners are also capable batters with Test centuries to their names. This balance brings a newfound confidence to our side.”

With such a comprehensive setup, Bangladesh may well be poised to challenge India’s formidable record on home turf.