BAN vs SA: Bangladesh announce Test squad for Shakib Al Hasan’s farewell series

Bangladesh have officially revealed their team that will face South Africa in a series of two Test matches. This thread is part of the South Africa tour of Bangladesh in 2024.

The first Test will begin on October 21 at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka, followed by the second Test, which will begin on October 29 at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram. This series is an important opportunity for Bangladesh to bounce back from their recent comeback against India and show their mettle in the longer format of the game.

South Africa’s mixed form gives hope for Bangladesh

Bangladesh enters the series against South Africa after a humiliating whitewash at the hands of India. In the recently concluded two-match Test series, Bangladesh lost 2-0. Despite their efforts, the Bangladeshi team struggled against India’s good bowling and batting. This series loss will weigh heavily on the team as they look to regroup and return to the Test field.

Although Bangladesh has been playing impressively lately, South Africa also come to Bangladesh with a lot of results. Their last Test series they played with The West Indies in August 2024, they saw them win 1-0. Given South Africa’s consistent pace, Bangladesh will be hoping to use this opportunity to deliver a much-improved performance.

UPDATE: Cricket South Africa names replacements for Temba Bavuma and Nandre Burger ahead of Bangladesh Test tour

Key players to watch for Bangladesh

In Bangladesh’s quest for redemption, a few key players will be crucial to their success. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will be the center of attention, as he was the team’s top scorer during the recent series against India. He has collected 152 runs in two matches and is expected to lead the way.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz it will also be important in the upcoming series. He was the highest wicket-taker for his team in the India series, taking nine wickets in two Tests. Mehidy’s ability to trouble the batsmen will be crucial to Bangladesh’s chances.

Mominul Haquea left-handed batsman with experience in the middle, he is another player to watch. He was Bangladesh’s only century in the series against India and is known for his tenacity at the crease. His contributions will be important, especially in difficult batting situations.

Test farewell for Shakib Al Hasan

The upcoming Test series will also be exciting for Bangladesh, as it marks the farewell series for their cricket legend, Shakib Al Hasan.

Shakib recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a great chapter in Bangladesh cricket. A veteran of the game, Shakib made his Test debut in May 2007 against India and has since established himself as one of the best players in world cricket. With 4,609 runs and 246 wickets in his Test career, Shakib’s contribution to Bangladesh cricket’s success has been immense, and he will look to come out on top against South Africa.

Bangladesh squad to play Test series with South Africa

Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana

ALSO READ: Dominant South Africa steamroll Bangladesh to win Women’s T20 World Cup 2024