The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan, set to take place in the UAE from October 9 to 13. Among the notable roster changes is the decision to rest pace bowler Taskin Ahmed. BCB chief selector Habibul Bashar explained that the move is designed to ensure Taskin is fully prepared for the upcoming World Test Championship cycle. Bashar noted that the board is prioritizing the upcoming home Test series against the West Indies and England, suggesting that Taskin might feature in the ODI series against the West Indies to maintain his rhythm.
Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali have been recalled to the side, with the latter replacing wicketkeeper-batter Amite Hasan. Hridoy’s selection follows his impressive performance in Potchefstroom, where he struck an unbeaten 350 against South Africa A. Jaker, who scored 94 in the same match, last represented Bangladesh in the Test format during the July 2025 series against Sri Lanka in Galle. Explaining the selection, Bashar stated that the board prioritized Jaker’s current form in making the switch.
Pacer Nahid Rana remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a Grade 2 side strain sustained in July. Bashar confirmed that while Rana will be available from October 10, the board is exercising caution to ensure he is fit for the high-stakes home assignments ahead. The team has also designated three travelling reserves to support the main squad: offspinner Nayeem Hasan, pacer Musfik Hasan, and Under-19 fast bowler Iqbal Hossain Emon. The report also notes that jaker, meanwhile, was initially drafted into the Test squad for the series against Australia after Litton Das was doubtful for the tour. The report also notes that however, he made way after Litton recovered in time for the series Down Under. The report also notes that meanwhile, Nahid Rana continues to undergo rehabilitation as he recovers from the Grade 2 side strain that has kept him out since July.
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