Here is a matter of fact that can’t be disputed because the numbers do not lie, nor does the changing vagaries of time. The last time that the men’s Senior Bangladesh site visited Australia was back in 2008.

A lot has changed since Bangladesh last visited Australia  This was a period of time that was so far back in time that the likes of Virat Kohli still had not burst on the international scene, a period of time where Indian cricket was still headline by commanding talent such as Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh. As a matter of fact, this was a period of time where big names such as Shane was still very much with us, a time where the great Sachin Tendulkar was still an active International cricketer, and there was no such thing as the cult of T20 cricket as we know it today.

So it is only natural that there is so much of hype and eager excitement surrounding the Bangladesh rule of Australia, which is going to begin in just a few days’ time. The men’s Bangladesh side played a three match ODI series against Australia in Australia back in 2008, but this time around, that’s gonna be a proper test match battle.

Even though many fans, and perhaps rightly, so may not agree with the number of matches that are involved in this particular tour, at least we are going to see two proper test matches between Bangladesh and their mighty host Australia.  

Where does the first test take place?  The series begins at the noted Marrara Stadium at Darwin and this marks Bangladesh, first test match tour in Australia in two decades of time. But when you speak about the hosts, then for Australia this series marks the beginning or a start up of an important 12 month period where they are going to play, no fewer than 20 test matches.

However, having said all of that, make no mistake. Because for Bangladesh, this is not going to be a very easy time around for their matters for the simple reason that Australia bowlers will be coming in hard at them.

Why’s that and why do many believe so?

Not only is regular full time captain Pat Cummins making that big and keenly anticipated return to the captaincy fold, there’ll also be the likes of Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood in the side. Moreover, the likes of Beau Webster and Cameron Green make up for the part of the powerful all rounders in the side.

Ahead of the first game, captain Cummins reflected on some of the team’s make up versus Bangladesh:

“We know Scotty’s class, it is always a pretty tight call. There is not much you can say to Scotty except there is a lot of cricket coming up. He knows his worth, and how good he is, and I am sure he will be out there at some point pretty soon.”

And Australia have also announced the playing XI to face the visitors for the first test:

Jake Weatherald, Head, Labuschagne, Smith, Green, Carey, Webster, Starc, Cummins (C), Lyon, Hazlewood