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Babar Azam Returns, Tanzid Hasan Debuts as Pakistan Field Against Bangladesh in Sylhet Test

Devansh Cox · · 4 min read
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The stage was set in Sylhet for the second Test between Pakistan and Bangladesh, with overcast conditions adding an intriguing dimension to the proceedings. Pakistan, seeking to rebound from their defeat in the series opener in Mirpur, won the toss and, for the second consecutive match, opted to field first. Captain Shan Masood’s decision was likely influenced by a pitch that displayed a visible tinge of green, promising assistance for the seam bowlers early on.

Pakistan’s Strategic Overhaul for Sylhet Test

Facing the imperative to level the series, Pakistan implemented three crucial changes to their playing XI, signaling a clear intent to strengthen their batting and bowling departments. The most significant inclusion was the return of former captain Babar Azam, who recovered from a left knee injury. Babar’s presence provides a vital boost to Pakistan’s middle order, bringing experience, stability, and a prolific scoring record. His return necessitated a reshuffle in the batting lineup, with opener Imam-ul Haq making way, and Abdullah Fazal moving up to partner Azan Awais at the top of the order, allowing Babar to slot into his accustomed No. 4 position.

In the bowling department, Pakistan made two changes to tailor their attack to the Sylhet conditions. Right-arm quick Khurram Shahzad was brought in, replacing the formidable Shaheen Shah Afridi. Shahzad’s inclusion suggests a focus on consistent line and length, and perhaps an ability to exploit the perceived greenness of the pitch. Additionally, off-spinner Sajid Khan earned a spot in the XI, coming in for left-arm spinner Noman Ali. This swap introduces a different spin option, potentially targeting Bangladesh’s right-handed heavy lineup and offering variety in the spin attack.

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Bangladesh Introduces a Debutant and Reinforces Pace

Bangladesh, buoyed by their dominant performance in the first Test, also made two changes to their side. The most notable alteration was the debut of opener Tanzid Hasan. Tanzid’s opportunity arose due to an injury to regular opener Shadman Islam. His inclusion at the top of the order will be keenly watched, as he steps into the challenging role of facing the new ball against an experienced Pakistan pace attack. This debut represents a significant moment for the young batsman, tasked with providing a solid foundation for the innings.

In their pace battery, Bangladesh made a like-for-like change, with left-arm quick Shoriful Islam replacing Ebadot Hossain. Shoriful’s left-arm angle and ability to generate swing and seam movement could prove effective in the overcast conditions of Sylhet, providing a different challenge to the Pakistan batsmen. His inclusion aims to maintain the intensity and penetration of Bangladesh’s fast-bowling unit.

Overcast Conditions and Pitch Report

The match commenced under overcast skies in Sylhet, with reports of heavy rain around dawn. However, diligent work by the ground staff ensured the playing surface was ready for the scheduled start of play. The forecast for the day remains mixed, indicating that interruptions due to weather remain a distinct possibility. The green tinge on the pitch undoubtedly played a significant role in Shan Masood’s decision to bowl first, hoping his pacers can make early inroads and exploit any moisture in the surface.

Playing XIs for the Second Test

Bangladesh:

  • 1 Mahmudul Hasan Joy
  • 2 Tanzid Hasan
  • 3 Mominul Haque
  • 4 Najmul Hossain Shanto (capt)
  • 5 Mushfiqur Rahim
  • 6 Litton Das (wk)
  • 7 Mehidy Hasan Miraz
  • 8 Taijul Islam
  • 9 Taskin Ahmed
  • 10 Nahid Rana
  • 11 Shoriful Islam
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Pakistan:

  • 1 Azan Awais
  • 2 Abdullah Fazal
  • 3 Shan Masood (capt)
  • 4 Babar Azam
  • 5 Saud Shakeel
  • 6 Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
  • 7 Salman Ali Agha
  • 8 Khurram Shahzad
  • 9 Sajid Khan
  • 10 Hassan Ali
  • 11 Mohammad Abbas

With both teams making tactical adjustments and the conditions poised to favor the bowlers, the second Test in Sylhet promises to be a captivating encounter. Pakistan will be desperate to even the series, while Bangladesh aims to secure a historic series victory on home soil.

Devansh Cox

Devansh Cox is the chief cricket writer for Dawn, Pakistan's leading English-language daily, where he covers the national team, the Pakistan Super League, and the socio-political undercurrents of the sport. With a family heritage tracing back to the British Raj and strong ties to the UK, Cox brings a unique cross-cultural lens to his reporting, often examining the experiences of South Asian cricketers in English county circuits. A Karachi native, he is known for his technical analysis of fast bowling and his deep access to team insiders. His work has been cited by the ICC and the BBC, and he is a regular guest on Test Match Special’s Pakistan coverage.

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