Bangladesh Unveils Test Squad for Upcoming Series Against South Africa

Bangladesh has officially announced its squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa, highlighting the inclusion of uncapped batter Mahfijul Islam. The team faces challenges with player injuries and aims to improve its standing in the World Test Championship. With significant adjustments and returns, this series is crucial for Bangladesh's cricketing ambitions. Read on for detailed insights into the squad and player conditions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 9, 2026, 12:36 IST

Bangladesh Announces Test Squad Against South Africa

Bangladesh has revealed its 16-member team for the two-match ICC World Test Championship series against South Africa. Notably, uncapped batter Mahfijul Islam has received his first call-up after a stellar performance in the current domestic first-class season. The 22-year-old has been recognized for his consistent displays in the National Cricket League, where he has achieved a double century and a century in his last three matches. Mahfijul has amassed over 1,000 runs in 19 first-class games, maintaining an average of 33.67, as reported by the ICC.

Squad Adjustments and Player Returns

The squad remains mostly the same as the one participating in the Test series against the West Indies, with pacer Khaled Ahmed returning in place of Nayeem Hasan, considering the anticipated pace-friendly conditions in South Africa. Additionally, opener Naim Sheikh has been recalled to the Test squad, having last played in the longest format in 2022 during his debut against New Zealand.

Injury Updates and Team Standings

In injury news, Shadman Islam has been ruled out due to an ankle injury sustained while fielding in the ongoing second Test against the West Indies. He was taken off the field on a stretcher and will not participate further in the match. Conversely, Mominul Haque returns to the squad after missing the second Test against the West Indies due to a mandatory seven-day concussion protocol following a head injury in the first Test, according to the ICC.

Currently, Bangladesh is positioned fifth in the World Test Championship standings and is trailing 1-0 in their series against the West Indies. The team faces a challenging task in the second Test, having been set a target of 369 runs in the final innings. The upcoming two-match series against South Africa presents Bangladesh with a crucial opportunity to enhance their standing in the World Test Championship.

Bangladesh squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Tanzid Hasan, Naim Sheikh, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Ebadot Hossain, Khaled Ahmed, Mahfijul Islam.