Dhaka, April 26: Bangladesh has announced a 15-member squad for the first Test against Pakistan, featuring debutants Tanzid Tamim and Amit Hasan. The match is set to take place on May 8 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.
The two teams will compete in a Test series from May 8 to May 20, with the second match scheduled to be held at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium starting May 16. These matches are part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
Selectors have shown confidence in emerging red-ball talent for the first match, with Najmul Hossain Shanto continuing as captain and all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz appointed as vice-captain.
The inclusion of Tanzid and Amit is a highlight of this announcement. Tanzid, a left-handed opener, has previously been part of Bangladesh’s limited-overs team and has been rewarded for his consistent performance in first-class cricket. The 25-year-old has scored 1,792 runs at an average of 40 across 25 matches, indicating his readiness for Test cricket.
On the other hand, 23-year-old middle-order batsman Amit has earned his spot in the team due to his impressive consistency in domestic cricket. Since making his first-class debut in 2019, he has maintained an average of 49 in 82 innings.
This decision by the selectors reflects a significant strategy to strengthen Bangladesh’s batting in Test matches, viewing both players as long-term investments for the national team.
In addition to the new players, Bangladesh has also recalled some key bowlers. Fast bowlers Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam are returning to the Test team after being out since late 2024, while off-spinner Nayeem Hasan has been called back after nearly a year.
Bangladesh’s squad for the first Test against Pakistan includes: Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vice-captain), Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Tanzid Hasan, Amit Hasan.
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RSG