Cricketing fans around the globe realize that the game is far more than just a game; it’s rather more of a battlefield, and the rivalry is posed over incredible moments. Of those, the India-Bangladesh Test cricket rivalry has emerged as one of the most interesting and spirited contests in modern cricket.
In this article, we shall briefly discuss the history that has been quite rich, key matches, and what makes the India-Bangladesh Test rivalry so exciting.
Genesis Of The Rivalry
The India-Bangladesh cricketing contest cannot, for that matter, lay claim to history as long as some other Test match rivalries; nonetheless, it has quickly grown into quite an engaging contest. Bangladesh is a relatively recent entrant in the Test-playing arena, having begun playing that format way back in 2000.
When Bangladesh became a part of Test cricket, it was another new beginning for Test cricket in the sub-continent, and cricket matches between Bangladesh and India did not take much time to emerge as the priority ones of all.
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Major Match Moments Of The India-Bangladesh Test Series
The First Ever Match (2000)
The first Test match was held between India and Bangladesh in November 2000, played at the Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka. In more than one sense this was a game-changing moment for Bangladesh because this was only their second Test series. India won it, but by no stretch of the imagination would it be said to be one with which Bangladesh would make an impact.
2004 Series, A Ray For Future Rivalry!
Amongst the most talked about series from this series was the 2004 Test series when India made their first tour to Bangladesh. Such a series was really very important for Bangladesh, though India went on to win that series, the matches did reflect that Bangladesh had actually made some real improvements and shown that they can resist as well. This very much reflected how Bangladesh was moving from a pushover to a good competitor.
The Competitive Edge
It could only be an India-Bangladesh Test match where the contest was always going to be sharp and the skills on display far-reaching. India, with its glorious cricketing legacy and prolific experienced cricketers, normally begins the competition, but every time they meet Bangladesh at home, it has turned out to be a spirited contest, a real thrill ride.
Players To Watch For!
Cases like India and experience of its batting line-up with players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah would be critical in a Test series as they have been and continue to form the spine of this attack.
Shakib Al Hasan is the man for Bangladesh. He is one of the finest all-rounders globally and at times an absolute necessity for his side as he can chip in on both sides of the ball.
The Fan Factor
And this healthy rivalry between players and teams is now also extended to the fans. These are the only folks who understand cricket precisely like the players. It is electric when you see both sides come alive at the venues, cricket grounds, or any stadium hosting Test matches. All this, with slogans, anthem celebrations, and the tensed-out-seated end will capture the vivacity and drama of the matches.
What’s Ahead?
Competing with their neighbors, it is all going great for cricket. The India-Bangladesh test rivalry is ready to get even more ferocious as both teams are on their toes every time to develop their abilities and tactics promising more exciting days to come as rivals face off and fans await more nerve-shredding cricket.
