Bangladesh are preparing to host Pakistan in the opening match of a highly anticipated two-match Test series at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium, beginning on May 8. For Bangladesh, the series marks the beginning of an important home season and an opportunity to make a strong statement. They have shown visible improvement in red-ball cricket over the past few years, displaying greater discipline and utmost composure.
History, however, favours Pakistan. Across their Test matches, Pakistan have enjoyed overwhelming success, winning 12 matches as opposed to Bangladesh’s two victories. More importantly, Bangladesh have never managed to defeat Pakistan in a Test on home soil. They would hope to break that jinx. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will be expected to lead from the front, but much of Bangladesh’s hope will rest on the experience of veteran Mushfiqur Rahim.
He is one of the most dependable batters in Bangladesh team, having enjoyed a remarkable run of form over the past couple of years. Bangladesh’s bowling attack will be led by Nahid Rana, Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Pakistan, meanwhile, go into the first Test with a pool of talented stars.
The inclusion of four uncapped players has added fresh impetus to the side. Despite the availability of newcomers, Pakistan’s success will largely depend on the experience of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha and captain Shan Masood.
Head-to-head
Matches - 15
BAN won - 2
PAK won - 12
Bangladesh likely XI: Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana.
Pakistan likely XI: Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Fazal, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Khurram Shahzad.