Dhaka: Bangladesh national cricket team’s chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu announced the formation of a formidable team for the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe, with hopes of ending a 15-month win-drought at their home venue.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, despite Bangladesh’s impressive run in the Test format since March 2021, the team has not secured a victory at home during this period. Acknowledging this challenge, Ashraf and his team decided to field their strongest possible lineup against Zimbabwe, even though Bangladesh historically holds a clear advantage over the visiting team. Ashraf expressed concerns over the team’s performance over the past year and emphasized the importance of selecting the best team for the series.
Bangladesh has faced Zimbabwe 15 times, winning eight, losing seven, and drawing three matches. The last encounter between the two teams in Bangladesh, in 2020, resulted in a whitewash in favor of the home team. In 2021, Bangladesh also secured a c
omprehensive series win in Zimbabwe. However, the team has struggled at home recently, losing two consecutive series against Sri Lanka and South Africa after their last home Test victory against New Zealand following the 2023 World Cup.
Ashraf explained the team’s composition, highlighting a mix of experienced and young players. Notably, Taskin Ahmed is absent due to injury, and Liton Das is unavailable as he received a No Objection Certificate for the full season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The squad includes three openers, three spinners, and four pacers, with additional players in each category to address potential concussion issues.
In the absence of Liton Das, Zaker Ali Anik or Mahidul Islam Ankon may fill the number six or seven batting spots. Although both players are relatively new to Test cricket, Ashraf acknowledged the challenge of selecting between them. He also noted the ample options in the spin department, with players like Mehidy Hasan Miraz as an all-rounder, and Taijul and Nayeem a
s spin specialists. Despite Taskin’s absence due to injury, Ashraf assured that the team has four pacers to provide depth in the pace department.