Cricket

Bangladesh's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Pakistan has been announced, with the return of experienced batter Mushfiqur Rahim and fast bowler Taskin Ahmed. The series, scheduled to begin later this month, will see Bangladesh face a formidable challenge against the hosts.Mushfiqur, who missed the recent Test series against Sri Lanka due to a thumb injury, is a crucial addition to the batting lineup. His experience and ability to anchor the innings will be invaluable against Pakistan's potent bowling attack. Taskin, on the other hand, has been rested from red-ball cricket to manage his shoulder injury. He will only be available for the second Test in Karachi, but will play the second four-day game for Bangladesh A on August 20 to regain match fitness.The squad also includes senior allrounder Shakib Al Hasan, who has made himself available for selection after stepping down as a member of parliament. Shakib's experience and all-round abilities will be crucial for Bangladesh's chances of success.Six players from the Test squad, including Mushfiqur and captain Mominul Haque, have already arrived in Pakistan as part of the Bangladesh A side. They will play the first four-day game in Islamabad from August 13.Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain emphasized the importance of selecting the best players for this series. "This is a well-balanced squad," he said. "The likes of Mushfiqur, Mominul, and Shakib have played over 216 matches combined, and there is no substitute for that kind of experience."Bangladesh's pace attack will be led by Taskin, who last played a Test in January against New Zealand. The squad also includes four other pacers: Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Nayeem Hasan."We have selected five pacers mindful of the fact that Taskin Ahmed will only play the second Test," Ashraf said. "We have decided to include him in the A Team for the second four-dayer against Pakistan A to get him into the rhythm for longer version matches."Bangladesh will have additional time to prepare in Pakistan, with the first Test scheduled to begin on August 21 in Rawalpindi. The squad will train at the Gaddafi Stadium from August 14 to 16 before traveling to Islamabad on August 17.

Najmul Hossain Shanto's second century as Bangladesh captain, a pivotal moment in his career, has earned him the admiration of his teammates and coach. Shanto's leadership has brought out the best in him as a batter, according to Mushfiqur Rahim, who witnessed Shanto's transformation firsthand.Mushfiqur praised Shanto's ability to make the most of good starts, noting his impressive innings after reaching the century. He highlighted Shanto's calm demeanor and strategic thinking, which allowed him to guide Bangladesh to victory.Coach Chandika Hathurusinghe's support has also been instrumental in Shanto's growth. The senior cricketers in the team have embraced Shanto's leadership, creating a positive atmosphere that fosters success.Mushfiqur credited Mahmudullah's contribution in setting the tone for Bangladesh's chase. He emphasized the importance of experience in handling pressure situations, particularly against top bowlers like Wanindu Hasaranga.Mushfiqur's own performance against Hasaranga was crucial in neutralizing Sri Lanka's main threat. He explained his strategy of using the sweep shot to put pressure on the legspinner.Shanto's century and the team's overall performance reflect the positive changes taking place in Bangladesh cricket. The team's focus on process and atmosphere, rather than immediate results, is paying dividends.