The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially ratified a 15-member squad for the forthcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, distinguished by the inclusion of two uncapped players. Following the successful conclusion of the home series against New Zealand—in which Bangladesh recently claimed a 2–1 victory in the One Day International (ODI) segment—the national side is preparing to transition to the longest format of the game under the captaincy of Najmul Hossain Shanto.
The focal points of the selection are the maiden Test call-ups for opening batsman Tanzid Hasan Tamim and middle-order specialist Amit Hasan. While Tanzid has established himself as a regular fixture in the national limited-overs teams, this selection marks his inaugural entry into the red-ball international arena. For Amit Hasan, the inclusion represents a defining professional milestone, serving as his first ever call-up to the senior national squad across all formats.
Squad Composition and Tactical Framework
The batting department has been reinforced by these two newcomers, who join an experienced core featuring Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, and the veteran Mushfiqur Rahim. Litton Kumer Das will continue his responsibilities as the primary wicketkeeper-batsman, notably entering the series in good form after scoring a vital 76 in the series-clinching ODI against New Zealand.
The spin bowling contingent will be led by vice-captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, supported by the prolific Taijul Islam and off-spinner Nayeem Hasan. Nayeem’s selection marks his return to the Test arena for the first time since June 2025, when he played against Sri Lanka. Both Miraz and Nayeem are expected to provide essential balance to the side as bowling all-rounders.
In the pace department, the BCB has facilitated the return of senior fast bowlers Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam. The pair return to the Test fold after a 16-month absence, having last featured in the format during the tour of the West Indies in late 2024. They will bolster a seam battery that also includes the high-velocity prospect Nahid Rana and the experienced Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury.
Statistical Profiles: Tanzid and Amit
Habibul Bashar Suman, the Chairman of the National Selection Panel, provided insight into the technical justification for the new inclusions. Tanzid Hasan Tamim enters the squad with a robust first-class foundation, having accumulated 1,792 runs in 25 matches at an impressive average of 40.72, inclusive of five centuries and six half-centuries.
“We have closely monitored Tanzid’s progression in the longer version of the game,” Bashar stated. “His domestic record is exceptional, and we are confident that his technical attributes are well-suited for the rigours of Test cricket. We believe he is prepared to seize this opportunity.”
Amit Hasan has earned his position through sustained scoring in the domestic circuit, maintaining a first-class average of 49.32. Over the course of 49 matches, Amit has recorded 3,650 runs, including 11 centuries and 17 fifties. His selection was further solidified by a standout “Player of the Match” performance for the East Zone against the Central Zone at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, where he struck a patient 162 to secure an innings victory.
Regarding Amit’s temperament, Bashar added: “Amit’s call-up is the result of sustained discipline. He possesses the endurance and mental fortitude necessary for the Test format. Both he and Tanzid represent the future of our batting unit, and we believe they can serve the nation for many years.”
Series Itinerary and ICC Rankings
The Pakistan national team is expected to arrive in Dhaka on 3 May 2026. The opening Test match is scheduled to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, commencing on 8 May. The tour will subsequently move to the north-east for the second and final Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, beginning on 16 May.
The BCB has confirmed that the 15-member squad will participate in a preparatory training camp in Mirpur starting next week. This series carries significant weight as both nations seek to accumulate vital points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where every victory is crucial for the overall standings.
Bangladesh 15-member Test Squad:
Najmul Hossain Shanto (C)
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (VC)
Tanzid Hasan Tamim
Amit Hasan
Mahmudul Hasan Joy
Shadman Islam
Mominul Haque
Mushfiqur Rahim
Litton Das (WK)
Taijul Islam
Nayeem Hasan
Nahid Rana
Shoriful Islam
Taskin Ahmed
Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury