Bangladesh announce squad for Test series against Pakistan

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has unveiled a 16-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan, scheduled to commence on August 21 in Rawalpindi. Najmul Hossain Shanto will captain the side, which boasts a formidable five-man pace attack. However, the experienced Taskin Ahmed will miss the first Test, having not played in a Test match since June of last year.

Gazi Ashraf Hossain, Chairman of the National Selection Panel, explained the decision, stating, "We have chosen five pacers, considering that Taskin Ahmed will only participate in the second Test. To help him regain his form for longer matches, we’ve included him in the A Team for the second four-day match against Pakistan A."

Hossain emphasized the importance of selecting the best players for the Test series, noting the depth of experience in the squad. "This is a well-balanced team. Players like Mushfiqur Rahim, Mominul Haque, and Shakib Al Hasan have collectively played 216 matches, and that level of experience is invaluable."

He further highlighted the contributions of the spin duo, Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who have amassed over 350 wickets between them. Hossain expressed confidence in the batting lineup as well, urging Shanto, Litton Das, and others to step up, as a collective effort will be crucial to competing effectively against Pakistan.

The first Test will start on August 21, followed by the second match on August 30.

Bangladesh Test squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumar Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed