The focus now shifts to the shortest format as Bangladesh and West Indies prepare for the first of three T20 Internationals. Bangladesh, riding high on confidence from a 2-1 ODI series win, will aim to continue their dominance at home. West Indies, despite the ODI loss, consider T20 their strongest format and will be eager to bounce back, utilizing their power-hitting prowess.

Bangladesh: Momentum and spin power

Bangladesh’s recent T20I form has been strong, including a clean sweep against Afghanistan. The momentum from the ODI series, capped by a commanding victory, is firmly with the hosts. Spin is expected to remain their primary weapon, with the in-form Rishad Hossain being the key wicket-taker. The return of captain Litton Das will bolster their batting. However, they will need their top order to transition their form and fluency to the high-tempo nature of T20 cricket. The pace trio, featuring the likes of Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahmanwill be crucial in the powerplay and death overs.

West Indies: Explosive hitting and T20 pedigree

The West Indies side is much better suited to the T20 format, packed with powerful hitters like Rovman Powell and all-rounders like Jason Holder and Romario Shepherd. Captain Shai Hope‘s excellent form from the ODIs, where he scored a vital unbeaten fifty in a difficult chase, makes him a key anchor. Their strategy will involve aggressive strokeplay to challenge the Bangladeshi spinners. The bowling, led by spinners Akeal Hosein and Gudakesh Motioncombined with the variations of Holder, will need to be at their absolute best to contain Bangladesh on their home turf.

BAN vs WI, 1st T20I: Match Details

• Date and Time: October 27 (Monday); 5:30 pm IST/ 12:00 pm GMT
• Venue: MA Aziz Stadium, Chattogram

BAN vs WI, Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)

Matches Played: 19 | Bangladesh won: 8 | West Indies: 9 | No results: 2

MA Aziz Stadium Pitch Report

The surface in Chattogram is generally known to be more favourable for batting than the Dhaka pitch, with average first-innings scores in recent years around 165-170. It is expected to offer some early seam movement and bounce for the pacers, but as the game progresses, the spinners will come into play, getting turn and grip. Historically, teams batting first have a slight advantage, suggesting setting a target could be beneficial.

BAN vs WI, 1st T20I: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• West Indies wins the toss and bats first
• West Indies powerplay score: 45-55
• West Indies total score: 165-185

Case 2:

• Bangladesh wins the toss and bats first
• Bangladesh powerplay score: 50-60
• Bangladesh total score: 170-190

Match result: Bangladesh to win