Abu Dhabi:Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has decided to bat first after winning the toss in the one-off Test against Afghanistan at Sheikh Abu Jayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Bangladesh team aims to uphold their high standards in Test cricket, following their historic victory in Australia. The team has opted for a spin-heavy lineup, incorporating an additional spinner, Nayeem Hasan, alongside Taijul Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, anticipating that the Abu Dhabi pitch will be conducive to spin as the game progresses.
In addition to their spinners, Bangladesh included two pacers, Ebadot Hossain and Hasan Mahmud, in their lineup. Notably, Shoriful Islam, who took seven wickets in the second Test against Australia in Mackay, was not selected for this match. Captain Shanto mentioned that batting in the second innings could be more challenging, emphasizing the need for consistency and stating that the team is well-prepared to showcase their skills.
The two teams have faced off twice in Test cricket before, each securing one victory to keep their rivalry even. Afghan captain Rahmat Shah acknowledged Bangladesh's strength, emphasizing the importance of consistent and accurate bowling for his team.
The lineups for the match are as follows
Bangladesh Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das (w), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Taijul Islam, Ebadot Hossain.
Afghanistan Abdul Malik, Sediqullah Atal, Rahmat Shah (c), Hashmatullah Shahidi, Ikram Alikhil (w), Zia-ur-Rehman Akbar, Shahidullah Kamal, Yamin Ahmadzai, Qais Ahmad, Mohammad Saleem Safi, Ismat Alam.