As the second Test between India and Bangladesh approaches, set to take place at Green Park, Kanpur from September 27, 2024, India enters the match with a significant advantage.
After a commanding 280-run victory in the first Test, the hosts are poised to clinch the series. Here are three compelling reasons why India is likely to emerge victorious in this encounter.
1. Home Advantage and Pitch Conditions
The conditions at Green Park are expected to favor the Indian team significantly. Reports indicate that the pitch will be a black soil surface, which tends to produce lower bounce and slower pace compared to the previous Test in Chennai.
This shift in pitch dynamics will likely benefit India’s spin-heavy bowling attack, featuring stalwarts like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, who are dangerous for opponents on turning tracks.
The familiarity with local conditions, coupled with strong crowd support, gives India a psychological edge over Bangladesh.
2. Strong Batting Lineup
India’s batting lineup boasts a wealth of experience and talent. With players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul anchoring the top order, India can build substantial innings.
The team’s depth is further enhanced by aggressive batsmen such as Rishabh Pant and promising talents like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who can accelerate scoring when needed.
This batting strength was evident in the first Test, where they set a formidable target that Bangladesh struggled to chase down.
3. Impressive Bowling Attack
India’s bowling attack is versatile and well-equipped to exploit the conditions at Kanpur.
With Jasprit Bumrah leading the pace attack alongside Mohammed Siraj, India possesses the firepower to dismantle any batting lineup.
The anticipated pitch conditions will likely see India rely more on spinners, allowing them to rotate their bowlers effectively.
The ability of Ashwin and Jadeja to take wickets consistently in home conditions adds another layer of security for India’s chances of victory.