Bangladesh have announced a revised 15-member squad for the second and final Test against Zimbabwe, set to begin on April 28 at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram. After a surprising defeat in the opening Test, the Bangladesh selectors have made two key changes in an effort to bounce back and level the series.
Among the most notable inclusions is Anamul Haque, the experienced right-handed opener who is poised to make his first Test appearance in nearly three years. Anamul last featured in a red-ball game for Bangladesh during the 2022 tour of the West Indies. Since then, he has impressed with consistent performances in domestic cricket, particularly in the Dhaka Premier League where he has struck consecutive centuries for Gazi Group. His recent form has put him back in contention for national duties as Bangladesh look to fortify their top order.
Another new face in the squad is uncapped left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam. His inclusion suggests Bangladesh may be looking to exploit spin-friendly conditions in Chattogram, especially after their bowlers struggled to contain Zimbabwe’s batters in Sylhet.
Zakir Hasan and fast bowler Nahid Rana have been dropped from the squad. Zakir, who opened in the first Test, failed to make a significant impact, while Rana’s omission appears to be a tactical change as Bangladesh reconsiders their bowling options.
Zimbabwe stunned the hosts with a dramatic three-wicket win in the first Test, marking their first Test victory over Bangladesh in several years. The upset has put pressure on the home side to respond strongly in Chattogram. Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by pacer Blessing Muzarabani, capitalized on Bangladesh’s middle-order collapse to snatch an unlikely win.
With the series now on the line, Bangladesh will hope their new additions can bring stability and energy to the squad. The team will rely on its experienced core, including captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim, to guide them past a confident Zimbabwe outfit in the upcoming clash.