Bangladeshi players will have the chance to get some longer version cricket under their belt ahead of the forthcoming Test series against Zimbabwe when they play a three-day practice match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium starting today. The players of the 32-member preliminary squad will be divided into two teams for the game that is expected to help the team management to look at their options before the crucial series.
Zimbabwe, who will arrive on October 17, will play three Tests and five one-day internationals in what has been touted as the longest ever home series for Bangladesh against any opponent.
Like the team management, the players are also keen to make a mark as there are some spots up for grabs with Sohag Gazi missing the series completely and pace bowler Al-Amin Hossain still doubtful due to their bowling action problem.
Out-of-favour Shahadat Hossain said on Wednesday that he is confident of making a return as he had developed himself physically.
‘I was dropped due to my fitness and not because of my form,’ Sahadat told reporters at Mirpur.
‘Even if Bangladesh fared badly, I took a wicket. Now I am looking forward to return,’ said Shahadat, who did not play a Test match since March 2013.
-With New Age input
