Bangladesh have announced the squad for the opening Test of the two-match series against Pakistan, starting in Chattogram from 26 November.

Batter Mahmudul Hasan Joy and pacer Rejaur Rahman Raja have earned maiden call ups. Allrounder Shakib Al Hasan is also included in the 16-member squad but will have his fitness assessed before being considered for the first Test.

Chairman National Selection Panel Minhajul Abedin said that team would be heavily reliant on experienced players while youngsters have been rewarded for their performances in domestic cricket.

“There is a fair bit of experience if you consider that Mominul (Haque), Mushfiqur (Rahim),  Shakib, Taijul (Islam) and Miraz (Mehidy Hasan) are all part of the squad. We will obviously have to wait to see if Shakib makes it for the first Test but these players have been the most consistent performers for us in Tests and their presence can make a difference.”
 
“We have options in the spin department as well as in pace. The team for the first Test is made up of cricketers who have been playing together regularly and they know the demands of Test matches. Pakistan are a formidable team but we are confident that Bangladesh will be competitive if we are disciplined and patient.”        
 
Bangladesh squad for first Test:

Mominul Haque (Captain), Shadman Islam,  Saif Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumer Das, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury, Abu Jayed Chowdhury Rahi, Yasir Ali Rabbi, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Rejaur Rahman Raja, Shakib Al Hasan (subject to being declared fit to play)