Eman 
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The two-match Test series between Bangladesh and Ireland reaches its conclusion today with the 2nd Test commencing at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Following a dominant innings victory in the opener, Bangladesh holds a 1-0 lead and is now hunting for a clean series sweep.
The match starts at 9:30 AM Local Time (3:30 AM GMT).
Historic Context: Mushfiqur’s Milestone
This match carries immense significance for Bangladesh cricket as veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim is set to make history by playing his 100th Test match—a phenomenal achievement and a first for the nation. The entire team will be eager to mark the occasion with another decisive victory.
Match Overview and Toss Update
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and elected to bat first in conditions expected to favor the home side’s batsmen and spinners later in the game.
The hosts have retained most of the successful squad from the Sylhet Test, including debut hero Hasan Murad and returning opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy.
Dhaka Venue and Pitch Report
The Shere Bangla National Stadium (SBNS) in Dhaka, known for its passionate atmosphere, typically produces slow, low pitches that offer significant turn, especially as the game progresses. While the recent Sylhet pitch was praised for being “sporting,” the Dhaka surface is likely to challenge the visiting batsmen with sharp spin and variable bounce from Day 3 onwards.
Squad Details and Key Players
Both teams have finalized their playing XIs for this decisive contest:
| Bangladesh Squad (Key Focus) | Ireland Squad (Key Focus) |
| Mushfiqur Rahim: The focus of the match, aiming for a significant score in his 100th Test. | Andrew Balbirnie (C): Needs to lead the batting effort and show resilience against spin. |
| Najmul Hossain Shanto (C): Leads a confident side looking for consistent batting. | Harry Tector & Curtis Campher: Their form will be crucial for Ireland’s middle-order stability. |
| Mehidy Hasan Miraz & Taijul Islam: The primary spin threats expected to exploit the Dhaka surface. | Andy McBrine: Their most experienced bowler, expected to deliver long, accurate spells. |
| Mahmudul Hasan Joy: Looking to back up his massive score from the 1st Test. | Lorcan Tucker (WK): Must provide runs and stability in the lower middle order. |
Match Officials
The match will be overseen by Umpires Richard Illingworth and Sam Nogajski, with Ahsan Raza serving as the 3rd Umpire and Andy Pycroft as the Match Referee.
IMAGE CREDITS: SPORTSTAR
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