Bangladesh vs Pakistan’s first test is scheduled for August 21 to 25, followed by the second from August 30 to September 3. Both matches will take place at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The second Test was originally to be held at the National Stadium in Karachi, but it was relocated due to ongoing construction work for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The matches will begin at 10:00 AM local time (11:00 AM BST).
Bangladesh vs Pakistan Test Series Preview
As the T20 World Cup fades into the background, Pakistan and Bangladesh, both struggling in the lower half of the World Test Championship standings, are preparing for a pivotal Test series. With disappointing performances in the shorter format still fresh in their minds, both teams are eager for redemption. Pakistan, stung by their early exit, and Bangladesh, who exited in the Super Eight stage, are both seeking to reclaim some lost pride. This Test series offers both sides a crucial chance to reset and embark on a new chapter.
Pakistan: The Favorites on Home Soil
Pakistan enters the series as the clear favourites, bolstered by their solid Test record and the advantage of playing on home soil. Under the leadership of Shan Masood, and with the expertise of their new red-ball coach, Jason Gillespie, Pakistan seems poised to bring stability and success to their Test cricket. Gillespie’s recent stint in county cricket could prove invaluable as he looks to instill discipline and consistency in Pakistan’s approach.
With the exception of Aamer Jamal, Pakistan has a full-strength squad at their disposal. Notably, they’ve opted for an all-pace attack on the traditionally pace-friendly Rawalpindi pitch, signaling their intent to go for the kill. Young opener Saim Ayub has been given another opportunity to prove his mettle, while the experienced Mohammad Rizwan will anchor the middle order.
Bangladesh: Overcoming Challenges and Focusing on Batting
Bangladesh, on the other hand, faced logistical challenges leading up to the series, including the inability to train in Dhaka. However, they took full advantage of PCB’s offer to train in Lahore and Rawalpindi, ensuring they were well-prepared for the contest ahead. Coach Chandika Hathurusinghe has voiced concerns about the team’s batting, a department that has been in decline over the past year.
The burden of responsibility will weigh heavily on senior players like Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mominul Haque, especially with captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Litton Das struggling for form. Bangladesh’s pace attack, though inexperienced, has shown promise. Khaled Ahmed and Shoriful Islam, along with the energetic Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana, will be crucial if Bangladesh is to challenge Pakistan’s formidable batting lineup.
Key Players to Watch: Naseem Shah and Najmul Hossain Shanto
All eyes will be on Naseem Shah, who recently impressed in a four-day match against Bangladesh A. His pace and ability to swing the ball make him a significant threat, especially on a Rawalpindi pitch that could assist fast bowlers. On the flip side, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh’s captain, will need to find his form quickly. His recent struggles, particularly his tendency to drive away from the body, have been his undoing. A disciplined approach from Shanto could provide Bangladesh with much-needed stability at the top of the order.
Team News and Conditions
Pakistan has named their XI well in advance, with Saud Shakeel as the vice-captain and a pace-heavy attack. For Bangladesh, Shadman Islam is likely to replace the injured Mahmudul Hasan Joy, while Mushfiqur Rahim returns to the side after missing the Sri Lanka series.
The pitch at Rawalpindi has a bit of grass but is expected to be favourable for batters. However, the weather could play spoilsport, with rain forecasted for all five days, potentially turning the match into a test of patience and resilience.
Stats and Trivia
- Bangladesh has never won a Test against Pakistan.
- Four players from Bangladesh’s last Test in Pakistan, which was also in Rawalpindi in 2020, are part of the current squad.
- Shakib Al Hasan has the most runs (508) for Bangladesh in Tests against Pakistan, while Taijul Islam, who may not play, has the most wickets (22).
Bangladesh vs Pakistan Test Series Where to Watch?
Rabbitholebd.com will live-stream the matches for the Bangladesh audience. Users can watch Bangladesh vs Pakistan Test Match Live on BDIX TV Servers.
For viewers in Pakistan, the series will be shown live on TV on Ten Sports HD and A Sports HD while the matches will be streamed live on Tamasha, Tapmad, ARY ZAP. No broadcaster has acquired rights for the series in India and the United Kingdom.
