New Delhi [India], September 17 (ANI): As the much-anticipated home Test series between India and Bangladesh draws near, former cricketer Ambati Rayudu has expressed his confidence in India’s chances of clinching victory. Rayudu believes that the Indian team, currently ranked second in the ICC Test rankings, is well-positioned to dominate the two-match series despite the recent impressive performances by Bangladesh.

The Test series will commence on September 19 at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, known for its challenging pitch and fervent crowd support. The second match is slated to begin on September 27 in Kanpur, adding another layer of historical significance to the encounter.

Bangladesh arrives in India buoyed by their recent achievements in the Test arena. Under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto, they secured a historic 2-0 series win against Pakistan on Pakistani soil, showcasing their growing prowess and resilience. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Bangladesh as they aim to carry forward their momentum into the Indian series.

However, despite Bangladesh’s recent successes, India remains the favorite on paper. Led by the experienced Rohit Sharma, the Indian team boasts a formidable line-up that includes stars like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant. Their deep bench strength and extensive preparation give them an edge as they look to assert their dominance on home turf.

Rayudu emphasized that India would not underestimate their opponents, stating, “I feel the Indian team won’t take Bangladesh lightly. Despite the rankings gap, India are firm favorites for this series.” His comments reflect a sense of cautious optimism within the Indian camp.

This series also marks a new era under the stewardship of head coach Gautam Gambhir. Additionally, South African bowling legend Morne Morkel has joined the coaching staff as the new bowling coach. Morkel’s expertise and fresh perspective are expected to bring valuable insights to India’s bowling attack.

Former cricketer Suresh Raina expressed his curiosity about Morkel’s impact, noting, “The pressure will be different. India is practicing a lot. I have played many matches for CSK in Chennai’s heat. The team’s fitness level is good. Virat was diving, Rohit was swimming. I am curious and excited to see how Morne Morkel will do.”

India’s squad for the first Test against Bangladesh features a blend of seasoned veterans and promising talents: Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Sarfaraz Khan, Rishabh Pant (WK), Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Yash Dayal.

Bangladesh’s squad, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, includes key players like Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, and Mushfiqur Rahim: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Shakib Al Hasan, Nahid Rana, Mominul Haque, Litton Kumer Das, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Zakir Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Jaker Ali Anik, Taijul Islam, Shadman Islam.

As the countdown to the series begins, both teams are gearing up for an intense battle that promises to captivate cricket fans worldwide.