Shanto and Mushfiqur Return as Bangladesh Opt to Bat First

​In the opening Test of the two-match series against Zimbabwe in Sylhet, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and chose to bat first. This match marks Shanto's return to the Test side after missing the previous series against the West Indies. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim also rejoined the lineup, bolstering Bangladesh's batting strength. Additionally, pace bowler Khaled Ahmed was included in the playing XI. Notably, Liton Das and Taskin Ahmed are absent from the squad for this series. ​

For Zimbabwe, captain Craig Ervine and experienced all-rounder Sean Williams returned to the team after missing their last series against Ireland. ​

Bangladesh Playing XI:

• Mahmudul Hasan Joy

• Shadman Islam

• Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain)

• Mominul Haque

• Mushfiqur Rahim

• Mehidy Hasan Miraz

• Jaker Ali (wicketkeeper)

• Taijul Islam

• Hasan Mahmud

• Khaled Ahmed

• Nahid Rana

Zimbabwe Playing XI:

• Ben Curran

• Nick Welch

• Craig Ervine (captain)

• Brian Bennett

• Sean Williams

• Wessly Madhevere

• Nyasha Mayavo (wicketkeeper)

• Wellington Masakadza

• Richard Ngarava

• Blessing Muzarabani

• Victor Nyauchi

This Test marks Bangladesh's return to the longest format after their previous series against the West Indies in November 2024.

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