South African cricket coach Shukri Conrad has announced a 15-man squad for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, featuring three spin bowlers. The matches will take place in Dhaka and Chattogram, following a security assessment due to recent political unrest in Bangladesh. Coach Conrad emphasizes the need to win five of the remaining six Tests in the World Test Championship to qualify for the final, noting the challenges posed by a strong Bangladesh team and upcoming series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
South African cricket coach Shukri Conrad announced the selection of a 15-man squad featuring three spin bowlers for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled for next month. This announcement coincided with confirmation of the venues for the matches, which will be played in Dhaka and Chattogram. The decision to proceed with the tour follows a security assessment by a South African delegation, considering the recent political unrest in Bangladesh that resulted in over 200 fatalities from protests earlier this year. Left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy returns to the squad for the first time since March 2023, joining fellow left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj and off-spinner Dane Piedt. In contrast, the pace attack consists of only three specialist seam bowlers: Kagiso Rabada, Nandre Burger, and Dane Paterson, with all-rounder Wiaan Mulder providing additional seam-bowling options. Coach Conrad remarked on his discussions regarding local pitch conditions with Russell Domingo, the former head coach of Bangladesh, highlighting that the team may opt to field a maximum of three seamers during the series. He stated, “We are likely to play three seamers maximum in Dhaka and Chattogram,” and indicated that the likely pace combination would include Kagiso Rabada, Nandre Burger, and Wiaan Mulder as an all-round option, with Dane Paterson available based on conditions. Conrad also noted the probable inclusion of only two spinners in the playing XI, expressing confidence in Maharaj’s ability to bowl numerous overs while Muthusamy will serve as backup. The squad undergone changes with the exclusion of fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, who was part of the team that recently secured a 1-0 series victory against the West Indies in August. Furthermore, Conrad emphasized the significance of the upcoming Tests, stating that South Africa must aim to win five out of their remaining six matches in the current World Test Championship to ensure qualification for the final in England next year. Beyond the Bangladesh series, South Africa will host Sri Lanka and Pakistan in two-match home series during December and January. Acknowledging the strength of the opposition, Conrad acknowledged that Bangladesh has proven to be formidable, particularly after their recent success against Pakistan, and expressed concern regarding the upcoming challenges against Sri Lanka, another serious contender for the championship final. He remarked, “It is encouraging for world cricket that it is not only about the big three,” and expressed intent that South Africa seeks to impede the Bangladesh team’s aspirations, particularly as Shakib Al Hasan approaches retirement.
The background of this announcement is rooted in South Africa’s ongoing international cricket engagements and their standing in the World Test Championship. The significance of the upcoming matches hinges on South Africa’s necessity to secure victories for championship qualification. Additionally, the safety concerns following political unrest in Bangladesh underline the gravity of the tour’s organization, with security assessments leading to careful planning. The strategic selection of spinners, given the conditions expected in Bangladesh, demonstrates South Africa’s adaptability and foresight in utilizing available resources effectively.
In conclusion, South Africa’s selection of a squad with a strong emphasis on spin bowling for the forthcoming Test series against Bangladesh reflects strategic planning in response to both team requirements and local conditions. The coach’s insights into the competitive landscape suggest a cautious but determined approach as South Africa aims for critical victories in the World Test Championship. The upcoming series thus presents an opportunity for both teams to demonstrate their prowess, particularly with Bangladesh seeking to honor their retiring cricket star.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
