New Delhi
Bangladesh climbed to sixth place in the latest ICC Test team rankings, marking a historic breakthrough after their recent series against Australia.
The Bangla Tigers moved up three places to a rating of 78, surpassing the West Indies, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It is the first time Bangladesh have risen above ninth position in the Test rankings, making the achievement a significant moment for the side.
Bangladesh Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto called the rise a “huge achievement”, although he admitted the team would have preferred to celebrate it after a stronger performance in the second Test against Australia.
Bangladesh famously won the opening Test in Darwin by nine wickets, securing their first Test victory on Australian soil. They bowled Australia out for 198, with Hasan Mahmud claiming six wickets, before posting 426 in their first innings. Mehidy Hasan Miraz then helped dismiss Australia for 284 in the second innings, leaving Bangladesh with only 57 runs to chase.
Australia responded strongly in the second Test, winning by an innings and 51 runs to level the series 1-1.
Shanto believes Bangladesh need more regular exposure to Australian conditions. The recently completed series was their first Test tour of Australia in 23 years. He said most Bangladeshi players lack experience of the conditions and quality of bowling found there.
Bangladesh have also had limited opportunities in Australia across other formats. Their last ODI series there was in 2008, while they have never toured the country for a T20I series.
Shanto urged cricket authorities to schedule more frequent tours, saying consistent exposure would help players adapt and compete better.
Historic Ranking Rise
- Bangladesh moved three places to No. 6.
- Their rating stands at 78.
- They surpassed West Indies, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
- First time Bangladesh have gone above ninth.
Litton Das: “Reaching No 6 in the Test ranking is a huge achievement.”
Najmul Hossain Shanto: Bangladesh want to play in Australia consistently rather than returning after 23 or 25 years, giving players greater experience of unfamiliar conditions and high-quality bowling attacks.
