The Tigers are set to embark on a gruelling Test campaign in the heartland of Pakistani cricket. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has thrown down the gauntlet with a 16-man squad announced on Sunday.
Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu has opted for a balanced blend of experience and youth, aiming to conquer the fortress of Pakistan. Despite a storm of criticism, the talismanic Shakib Al Hasan retains his place, while the return of Mushfiqur Rahim and Taskin Ahmed adds a potent edge to the side. However, the omission of Shahadat Hossain Dipu has raised eyebrows, with the selectors opting for a five-pronged pace attack.
The onus will be on the experienced trio of Shakib, Mushfiqur, and Mominul to deliver on Pakistani soil. Mushfiqur, eager to rediscover his best form after a spell on the sidelines due to injury and T20 retirement, will be keen to make a statement. Mominul, the Test specialist, has shown signs of a revival after a lean patch and will be looking to build on his recent half-centuries.
Shakib, the undisputed superstar, carries the weight of expectation despite recent struggles. His batting form has been inconsistent, and his bowling effectiveness has also dipped. Eye problems have compounded his difficulties. Yet, the selectors have backed their man, citing his immense experience and record against Pakistan.
The top order remains a source of concern, with Mahmudul Hasan’s inconsistency a particular worry. However, there are glimmers of hope in the form of Sadman Islam and Zakir Hasan, who have shown promise. The captain, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, has endured a slump and will be desperate to rediscover his touch. Liton Das, too, has struggled for consistency.
Bangladesh’s bowling attack, on the other hand, appears formidable. The spin trio of Mehdi Hasan Miraj, Taijul Islam, and Naeem Hasan offer plenty of guile and experience. The pace department boasts a mix of experience and raw talent, with Taskin, Khaled Ahmed, Shariful Islam, and Nahid Rana all capable of making an impact.
However, the struggles of the top orders are continue, especially in the opening stand is a big concern.
Mominul looked to get rid of his bat-patch when he scored a fifty in the second innings of the second Test after dismal display in the first Test (3 and six) runs) in the last Sri Lanka series.
Mahmudul Hasan, one of the top orders, who played 13 Tests, failed to score even a fifty in his last seven innings when got out for six ducks. But got the award having the call for Pakistan tour when he tipped off getting back his form with two fifties (69 and 65) during the five-run win over the Pakistan 'A' team in Darwin.
Sadman Islam could not prove his mettle in 13 Tests since his debut in 2018. But Zakir Hasan the middle order bat is a bit ahead of others. He scored 455 runs including a century and four fifties at an average of 32.50 in seven Tests.
Meanwhile, Nazmul Hossain, captain of all three formats, was very much disappointed in his six innings scoring 55 runs with highest 20 runs when Litton Das is also not in his familiar approach.
A big challenge is waiting for the Tigers when they have a dismal record against Pakistan, as they yet to win any Test, out 13 outings one draw and one was postponed. However, this squad has the potential to defy the odds. The first Test in Rawalpindi on August 21 will be a stern examination.
