Bangladesh vs South Africa: First Test Match Kicks Off in Mirpur Amid High Stakes for World Test Championship

Bangladesh and South Africa are set to clash in the first Test match of a two-match series, starting on Monday, October 21, at the Sher-E Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. This series is crucial for both teams, especially for South Africa, as it is their last away tour in the 2023-25 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. South Africa is on the cusp of securing a spot in the WTC final, scheduled for June 11 next year at Lord's Cricket Ground, if they win their remaining six Test matches.

The Bangladesh team, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, will be without the services of all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who pulled out due to political tensions in the country. Hasan Murad has been included in the squad as his replacement. Despite a recent 2-0 Test series loss to India, Bangladesh is optimistic about their chances, having previously whitewashed Pakistan in a Test series away from home.

South Africa, meanwhile, will be without captain Temba Bavuma, who is sidelined with a muscle strain on his left triceps. Aiden Markram will lead the team in his absence, and Dewald Brevis has been called up to the squad. Brevis, known for his performances in limited-overs cricket, could make his Test debut in this series.

The first Test will be played from October 21 to October 25, starting at 9:30 AM IST (10:00 AM local time, 04:00 AM GMT). The match will not be telecast on TV in India but will be live-streamed on the Fancode app and website.

The second and final Test of the series will take place at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram from October 29 to November 2. This series is a significant milestone for both teams as they vie for points in the World Test Championship.