Pak vs Ban: Bangladesh Announces 16-Man Squad for Pakistan Test Series
There is a lot of excitement in the cricket world as Bangladesh gets ready to play against Pakistan in a two-Test series beginning on August 21 in Rawalpindi. The BCB has announced a 16-player team, captained by Najmul Hossain Shanto, for the much-awaited Pak vs Ban match. Both teams are enthusiastic about moving up the points table in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 series. This home series is crucial for Pakistan as it will provide them with an edge due to the familiar conditions.
A Balanced Bangladesh Squad
Bangladesh's squad selection reflects careful planning and strategy. With five pacers included, the team is ready for the challenging conditions in Pakistan. However, the experienced Taskin Ahmed will only be available for the second Test. According to Gazi Ashraf Hossain, President of the National Selection Board, "We picked five pacers aware of the certainty that Taskin Ahmed will only be playing the second Test."
This cautious approach is necessary as Taskin hasn’t bowled in a Test since June last year. To ensure he’s match-ready, Taskin will first play in the A Team’s second four-day match against Pakistan A.
The Bangladesh team also includes seasoned players such as Mushfiqur Rahim, Mominul Haque, and Shakib Al Hasan. These seasoned veterans have participated in a total of 216 Test matches, offering valuable expertise to the team. Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz are the main spinners, having collectively taken more than 350 wickets. The Bangladesh team appears in great form and is prepared to challenge the home team.
Head-to-Head: Pakistan vs Bangladesh
The Pak vs Ban rivalry has been one-sided in Test cricket, with Pakistan dominating the encounters. Out of the 13 matches played in six Test series, Pakistan has won 13, with only one match ending in a draw. This history adds an extra layer of pressure on Bangladesh as they aim to break Pakistan's winning streak, At the same time it will put pressure on Pakistan because they also wanted not to break this streak against Bangladesh.
What to Expect in the Series
The upcoming WTC series is important for both teams as they strive to compete. Shan Masood is leading Pakistan and has announced a formidable team consisting of renowned players including Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan. Pakistan will seek to uphold its supremacy over Bangladesh, but the guests should not be overlooked. Pakistan will feel pressure because people expect them to win, as pressure is always on the side of the expected winners.
Najmul Hossain Shanto and his team understand the challenge ahead. “We expect Shanto, Litton Kumar Das, and the other batsmen to step up because to be competitive against Pakistan, we will need a team effort,” said Hossain. This highlights the importance of a collective performance in this high-stakes Pak vs Ban series.
Series Schedule
- 1st Test: August 21 - 25 at Pindi Cricket Stadium
- 2nd Test: August 30 - September 4 at National Bank Stadium
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FAQs
Q: Who is leading the Bangladesh squad for the Test series against Pakistan?
A: Najmul Hossain Shanto is leading the 16-man Bangladesh squad for the two-Test series against Pakistan.
Q: When does the Pak vs Ban Test series start?
A: The series begins on August 21, 2024, in Rawalpindi.
Q: Why is Taskin Ahmed only playing in the second Test?
A: Taskin Ahmed hasn’t bowled in a Test since June last year. He will play in the A Team’s match first to regain match fitness.
Q: How many Test matches have Pakistan and Bangladesh played against each other?
A: Pakistan and Bangladesh have played 13 Test matches, with Pakistan winning 12 and one ending in a draw.
Q: Who are the key players in the Bangladesh squad?
A: Key players include Mushfiqur Rahim, Mominul Haque, Shakib Al Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
This series is not simply another Test match. It is a struggle for honor, and power, and a crucial move towards achieving WTC success. With the Pak vs Ban Test series nearing, all attention will be on the two teams as they compete in Rawalpindi and Karachi. If you want to enjoy the series, stick with us.
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