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The Return of Test Cricket to Mirpur
Test cricket makes a much-anticipated return to Bangladesh this May, as the national side prepares to host Pakistan at the iconic Sher-E-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. Commencing on May 8, 2026, this two-match series marks a significant chapter in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle. For Bangladesh, this is their first home assignment of the current cycle, following a mixed outing in Sri Lanka last year where they secured a draw and suffered a defeat. They currently sit eighth in the standings, while their visitors, Pakistan, arrive sitting in fifth place after a hard-fought series against South Africa.
The motivation for the hosts is clear. Following their historic 2024 series sweep in Pakistan—the first time they had ever defeated their opponents in a Test series—Bangladesh now looks to achieve a rare home and away double. To secure a positive start, the team composition will be vital. Here is the predicted playing XI for the first Test.
The Top Order: Stability and Experience
Leading the charge at the top of the order are Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shadman Islam. Mahmudul Hasan Joy enters this series in exceptional touch, having been the leading run-getter during the November 2025 series against Ireland. His ability to anchor the innings was on full display with 265 runs across three innings, including a stellar 171-run knock. Pairing him is the experienced Shadman Islam, who brings the composure of 26 Tests to the crease, complemented by his performance in the Ireland series where he struck two crucial half-centuries.
Following the openers, the seasoned Mominul Haque remains the backbone of the batting lineup. With 75 Test caps and nearing the milestone of 5,000 career runs at an average of 37.66, Mominul is not just a tactical choice but a mathematical necessity. He remains on the cusp of surpassing Tamim Iqbal to become the second-highest run-scorer in Bangladesh’s Test history.
Middle Order and All-Rounders
Bangladesh’s middle order is defined by its extensive experience and leadership. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who is expected to return to the squad following a period of injury, anchors the number four spot. His recent success in ODI cricket against New Zealand provides the momentum he needs for his return to the red-ball format.
He is followed by the legendary Mushfiqur Rahim at number five. Having recently surpassed 100 Test matches, Mushfiqur continues to be the ultimate test of resilience for any bowling attack, boasting 6,510 runs and 13 centuries. Wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das holds down the number six position, providing a blend of defensive stability and counter-attacking prowess with an average of over 35 across 52 Tests. The all-rounder contingent is spearheaded by ODI skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who serves as the team’s engine room. With 2,174 runs and 210 wickets, he is the third-highest wicket-taker in the nation’s Test history.
Rounding out the bowling all-rounders is the left-arm orthodox spinner Taijul Islam. Having recently overtaken Shakib Al Hasan’s tally to become the all-time leading Test wicket-taker for Bangladesh with 250 scalps, Taijul provides both a consistent threat and useful runs at the tail end of the innings.
The Pace Battery
The fast bowling unit sees the return of 31-year-old Taskin Ahmed, who brings his experience of 17 Tests and best match figures of 6/64 back into the fold. He will be joined by the rising star Nahid Rana, whose recent form—including a strong showing in the PSL 2026 and a series-winning performance in ODIs against the Kiwis—makes him a formidable selection. The tall left-arm pacer Shoriful Islam completes the pace attack, offering a unique angle that has proven troublesome for top-order batters, alongside a respectable economy rate.
Alternative Tactical Considerations
Depending on the condition of the surface in Mirpur, the team management may consider a strategic shift. If the pitch shows early signs of degradation or plays slow, the off-break of Nayeem Hasan could be drafted into the XI. With over 300 First-Class wickets to his name, Nayeem offers a specialized spin option that could see him replace Taskin Ahmed to provide further support to Mehidy and Taijul.
Bangladesh Predicted Playing XI
- Mahmudul Hasan Joy
- Shadman Islam
- Mominul Haque
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (c)
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Litton Das (wk)
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Taijul Islam
- Taskin Ahmed / Nayeem Hasan
- Nahid Rana
- Shoriful Islam
