Asia Cup 2027 - (Source: X)
Bangladesh are currently touring Australia for a Test series, while the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is busy preparing for the upcoming Asia Cup 2027. Notably, the Tigers will host the Intercontinental Cup for the first time since 2016.
Reports suggest that the upcoming Asia Cup will take place from June 18 to July 4. There was a lot of controversy over Bangladesh’s hosting rights due to strained relations with India, but at present things are improving, and India will travel to its neighbouring country for the Asia Cup.
Bangladesh Finalises Three Venues For Asia Cup 2027
Since the issues have been resolved, there are reports that the BCB has finalised three venues - Dhaka, Sylhet & Chattogram. Historically, Bangladesh have produced flat decks or ones which have suited the spinners.
However, the Bangladesh Board is keeping the larger picture in mind and have devised a special plan for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which might actually trouble India.
Bangladesh To Prepare South Africa-Like Pitches
A recent report by Mian Ahmad of Crichive mentioned that the BCB is looking to prepare South Africa-like pitches for the Asia Cup 2027. The board wants the upcoming Asia Cup to be a preparation ground for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be in South Africa in October 2027.
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South Africa are known for their pacey, bouncy pitches, and Asian teams often find it difficult to adapt to those conditions. Hence, Bangladesh want to be fully prepared for a difficult challenge.
Will India Be Troubled By Bangladesh’s New Tactics?
India boasts an impressive record in Asia and Bangladesh. The Men in Blue are the defending champions, but they too will be challenged with the new conditions. Bangladesh troubled India when the Men in Blue last travelled to Bangladesh in 2022, and the Tigers would look to do the same again.
However, India have an advantage that they might visit Bangladesh for a white-ball series later this year. Notably, the Men in Blue were supposed to travel last year, but the tour got postponed due to geopolitical tensions.
Another reason why India should worry is that Bangladesh have recently produced a great crop of fast bowlers. Nahid Rana has been doing well and recently troubled Pakistan and Australia with his heroics.
Nahid Rana is having a brilliant season as he took a fifer against Pakistan and picked up four-wicket haul against Australia at home. Hence, seamers like him can pose massive threat to Indian batters.
Bangladesh's Record In South Africa
Changing surfaces ahead of 2027 World Cup is crucial for Bangladesh as well because the Tigers are eyeing their maiden World Cup title. Notably, the last time the Litton Das-led side travelled to the Rainbow Nation, they beat the Proteas 2-1.
Hence, Bangladesh would look to replicate a similar scenario in 2027 World Cup and upset several teams.
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