Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has recently named a 16-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship series against Pakistan, with all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan making a notable return to the Test arena. The series, set to begin later this month, will see Bangladesh aiming for their first-ever Test victory against Pakistan.
Shakib to play a key role?
Shakib’s inclusion comes as a surprise to some, given recent speculations about his fitness for the longer format. The 37-year-old veteran has been playing Test cricket since 17 years now. However, Shakib has remained active in T20 leagues worldwide, including stints in the Major League Cricket (USA), Lanka Premier League, and the ongoing Canada’s GT20.
The squad, to be led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, boasts a formidable pace attack with five fast bowlers selected. This strategic decision aims to capitalize on the conditions and challenge the Pakistani batting lineup. However, the experienced Taskin Ahmed will miss the first Test, as he hasn’t bowled in the format since June last year.
Gazi Ashraf Hossain, Chairman of the National Selection Panel, explained the rationale behind the pace-heavy squad: “We have selected five pacers mindful of the fact that Taskin Ahmed will only play the second Test. He hasn’t bowled in a Test since June last year, and we have decided to include him in the A Team for the second four-dayer against Pakistan A to get him into the rhythm for longer version matches.”
Bangladesh Test squad vs Pakistan
Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumer Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Syed Khaled Ahmed
