In a bid to replicate the 2010 history, Bangladesh take on New Zealand in the first Test of the two-match Sahara Test series at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Wednesday. The 0-4 thrashing at the hands of Bangladesh in the last bi-lateral series in ODI in 2010 prevented the Kiwis from being absolute favourites, something a new experience for Bangladesh in Test series. For the time being Bangladesh have the upperhand but they also could not claim them favourite due to their shaky Test performance. Bangladesh recently though has put up impressive performance in longer version cricket, yet to know how to win a Test against top flight opposition.
Spin is on the cards to demolish the Black Caps once again like the 2010 as Bangladesh are expected to employ three-pronged spin attack in Shakib Al Hasan, Abdur Razzak and Shohag Gazi. Marshall Ayub is likely to be handed the Test cap. New Zealand also could hand debut to leg-spinner Ish Sohdi, hinted their skipper Brendan McCullum.
Gazi Television (GTV) will telecast the match live from the stadium at 9.30 am.
-With The Independent input
