Bangladesh Unveils Squad for ICC World Test Championship Series Against South Africa

Bangladesh has announced its 16-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship series against South Africa. Uncapped batter Mahfijul Islam has earned his first call-up following impressive performances in the domestic circuit. The team, currently fifth in the standings, faces a challenging series after trailing 1-0 against the West Indies. With key players returning and others sidelined due to injuries, this series presents a vital opportunity for Bangladesh to improve their position in the championship. Read on for more details about the squad and the upcoming matches.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 9, 2026, 23:48 IST

Bangladesh Announces 16-Member Squad for Upcoming Test Series

On November 9, Bangladesh revealed their 16-player roster for the two-match ICC World Test Championship series against South Africa. Notably, uncapped batsman Mahfijul Islam has received his first call-up due to his outstanding performance in the current domestic first-class season.

The 22-year-old has been recognized for his remarkable consistency in the National Cricket League, where he has achieved a double century and a century in his last three outings. Mahfijul has amassed over 1,000 runs in 19 first-class matches, boasting an average of 33.67, as reported by the ICC.

The squad features minimal changes from the one currently competing 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 made a comeback to the Test team, having last played in the longest format in 2022 during his debut against New Zealand.

In contrast, Shadman Islam has been sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained while fielding in the ongoing second Test against the West Indies. He was carried off the field and will not participate further in the match.

Mominul Haque, however, is back in 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 sits 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, needing to chase down a target of 369 runs in their final innings.

The upcoming 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.