Bangladesh began the new Test Championship cycle with a victory over New Zealand on home soil, a match that also marked the debut of captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. Despite this promising start, the Tigers had only that single moment of triumph to cherish, as they subsequently faced defeats in three more matches within this cycle. However, their recent 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi has reignited their campaign and marked a significant turnaround.
This historic win against Pakistan has significantly boosted Bangladesh’s standing in the ICC Test Championship table. The Tigers have leapt two places to now occupy the sixth position. Prior to the Pakistan series, Chandika Hathurusingha’s squad was languishing near the bottom, with only the West Indies below them. Pakistan’s 10-wicket defeat to Bangladesh has now relegated them to eighth place.
Following the T20 World Cup, Bangladesh returned to the esteemed Test format with a two-match series against Pakistan, both matches being part of the Test Championship.
In the first Test in Rawalpindi, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first, declaring their innings at 448 for 6. Bangladesh responded robustly, amassing 565 runs and securing a lead of 117 runs. In their second innings, the hosts were restricted to just 146 runs. Chasing a modest target of 30 runs, Bangladesh reached the victory without losing any wickets.
Currently, India and Australia hold the top two spots in the Test Championship, with India boasting 68.52% points and Australia 62.50% points.
New Zealand and England are positioned third and fourth, respectively. Despite having the same number of wins as Bangladesh in five matches, Sri Lanka is ahead due to their head-to-head record. The top two teams will compete in the Test Championship final in 2025.
Bangladesh’s rise in the rankings is a testament to their growing prowess and resilience in the Test arena, marking a new chapter in their cricketing journey.
