The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, notable for the inclusion of two uncapped players. Following the conclusion of the home series against New Zealand—where Bangladesh recently secured a 2–1 ODI series win—the national side is set to transition to the longest format under the captaincy of Najmul Hossain Shanto.
The primary highlights of the selection are the maiden Test call-ups for opening batsman Tanzid Hasan Tamim and middle-order specialist Amit Hasan. While Tanzid has been a regular feature in the “Tigers'” limited-overs setups, this marks his first foray into the red-ball international arena. For Amit Hasan, the selection represents a significant career milestone as his first call-up to the senior national squad in any format.
Squad Composition and Tactical Adjustments
The batting lineup has been strengthened by the addition of the two newcomers, joining a core of experienced campaigners including Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim. Litton Kumer Das will retain his role as the primary wicketkeeper-batsman, having recently found form with a crucial 76 in the final ODI against New Zealand.
The spin department will be led by vice-captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, supported by the prolific Taijul Islam and off-spinner Nayeem Hasan. Nayeem’s inclusion marks his return to the Test fold for the first time since June 2025, when he featured against Sri Lanka. Both Miraz and Nayeem are expected to play pivotal roles as bowling all-rounders, providing balance to the lower order.
In the pace department, the BCB has welcomed back senior fast bowlers Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam. The duo returns to the Test arena after a 16-month absence, having last appeared in the format during the tour of the West Indies in late 2024. They will bolster a seam attack that also features the high-velocity young pacer 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 merits of the new inclusions. Tanzid Hasan Tamim enters the squad with a robust first-class record, having amassed 1,792 runs in 25 matches at an average of 40.72, including 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 consistent scoring in the domestic circuit, maintaining a first-class average of 49.32. Across 49 matches, Amit has recorded 3,650 runs, including 11 centuries and 17 fifties. His selection was further reinforced by a standout performance for the East Zone against the Central Zone at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, where he struck a patient 162 to help his side to 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 Schedule and Logistics
The Pakistan national team is expected to arrive in Dhaka on 3 May 2026. The opening Test is scheduled to take place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, commencing on 8 May. The tour will then shift to the northeast 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 undergo a preparatory camp in Mirpur starting next week. This series carries significant weight as both teams look to accumulate points in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
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.