Bangladesh has announced its Test squad for the first match against South Africa, led by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. Wicket-keeper Zaker Ali Anik is set to make his debut. The match will take place on October 21 in Dhaka. Following a historic clean sweep over Pakistan, Bangladesh aims to improve its performance after a loss to India. Phil Simmons has been appointed head coach, guiding the team to the Champions Trophy 2025.
Bangladesh has officially announced its squad for the first Test match against South Africa, with Najmul Hossain Shanto appointed as the captain. Notably, wicket-keeper batter Zaker Ali Anik has been included in the Test squad for the first time, marking a significant milestone in his career. The first Test is scheduled to commence on October 21 in Dhaka, followed by the second Test starting on October 29 in Chattogram. In the context of the ICC World Test Championship, Bangladesh currently holds the seventh position, while their opponents, South Africa, are placed fifth in the standings. Shanto recently showcased his batting prowess during the Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, further establishing his role in the team. The selected squad is as follows: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque Showrab, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Kumar Das (wk), Zaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, and Nahid Rana. Earlier in August, Bangladesh claimed a historic Test series victory over Pakistan, securing a 2-0 clean sweep on their opponents’ home ground. However, this success was overshadowed by a subsequent disappointing loss to India in an away series. In a significant development for the team, Phil Simmons has been appointed as the head coach, taking over from Sri Lanka’s Chandika Hathurusinghe. Simmons will guide the team through various competitions with his tenure expected to extend until the Champions Trophy in 2025. Following the completion of the two-match Test series against South Africa, Bangladesh is set to embark on a tour of the UAE for a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan.
Bangladesh cricket has a rich history and has made significant strides in recent years, particularly in the Test format. The announcement of the squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa highlights the team’s evolving dynamics, with young talents like Zaker Ali Anik being introduced. The context of the ICC World Test Championship adds further importance to these matches as both teams vie for better standings. Bangladesh’s previous successes and challenges in international cricket underline their ambitions on this global platform, especially after a notable historic achievement against Pakistan. Additionally, the role of a head coach is crucial to the team’s preparations as they look ahead to future tournaments, including the Champions Trophy.
The announcement of Bangladesh’s squad for the first Test against South Africa is significant as it includes new talents and is influenced by recent coaching changes. With a balance of experienced players and promising newcomers, Bangladesh aims to leverage its recent successes in the Test arena while striving to improve its standing in the ICC World Test Championship. Upcoming matches not only showcase the team’s growth but also set the stage for future competitions, including an ODI series against Afghanistan.
Original Source: www.icc-cricket.com
