The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has made a bold move ahead of their upcoming two-Test series against India, naming uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali Anik in their 16-man squad on Thursday. Anik replaces pacer Shoriful Islam, who sustained a groin injury during the Tigers' recent 2-0 Test series win over Pakistan.
Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu confirmed on Thursday that Shoriful had not recovered sufficiently to make the trip to India. The Test squad is set to depart for Chennai on September 15, where they will face the hosts in the series opener on September 19. Kanpur will host the second Test from September 27.
Selector Hannan Sarkar said that it was Shoriful's groin injury that kept him out of the side, and the extra batter was included keeping in mind the Indian conditions.
"Shoriful isn't 100 per cent fit for Test matches. He would be required to bowl 15-20 overs so we didn't want to take a risk," Sarkar said. "Shoriful missed the second Test against Pakistan due to his injury. The physios and trainers are looking after him. He remains within the system. He is an important member of our white-ball team. We have a T20 series coming up against India."
Both Tests are pivotal for Bangladesh's World Test Championship aspirations. Following the Tests, the Tigers will compete in a three-match T20I series against India, with matches scheduled for October 6, 9, and 12 in Gwalior, Delhi, and Hyderabad, respectively. The selectors will announce the T20I squad at a later date.
The last time Bangladesh toured India for a full series was in 2019, when they suffered defeats in both the Test and T20I series. The Tigers will be hoping to reverse their fortunes this time around, particularly given the recent success of their Test team.
Anik's inclusion in the squad is a significant development. As an uncapped player, he will be eager to make an immediate impact and secure a regular place in the Bangladesh lineup. His selection also reflects the BCB's confidence in his abilities and their desire to inject fresh blood into the team.
The upcoming series against India promises to be a thrilling contest between two talented teams. Bangladesh will be looking to upset the hosts and make a statement on the world stage.
Bangladesh Squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Liton Das, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Jaker Ali Anik, Hasan Mahmud, Taskin Ahmed, Khaled Ahmed.
