Predicted Playing XI of Bangladesh for First Test Against West Indies

Bangladesh will begin their two-match Test series against West Indies on October 28 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka. The opening fixture is part of the 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle, giving both teams an opportunity to strengthen their position before the competition moves towards its final stages.

Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh will aim to capitalise on home conditions against a West Indies side featuring a promising mix of experienced batters, pace bowlers and spin options. The hosts have named a 15-member squad, with the return of Taskin Ahmed and the inclusion of a fit-again Litton Das providing a boost ahead of the series.

With the Mirpur surface potentially bringing spinners into the contest, Bangladesh could opt for a balanced combination of specialist batters, all-rounders and bowlers.

Here is Bangladesh’s predicted XI for 1st Test vs West Indies:

1. Shadman Islam

Shadman Islam is expected to open the innings and provide stability at the top. The left-handed batter will need to show patience against West Indies’ new-ball bowlers and avoid playing away from his body. A solid start from Shadman could help Bangladesh negotiate the early movement before building a substantial first-innings total.

2. Tanzid Hasan

Tanzid Hasan is likely to partner Shadman at the top of the order. His inclusion would provide Bangladesh with a left-handed opening option and an opportunity to add attacking intent. The challenge for Tanzid will be adapting to the demands of Test cricket, where leaving deliveries and building partnerships are as important as scoring boundaries.

3. Najmul Hossain Shanto (c)

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will be a crucial figure in Bangladesh’s batting line-up. His ability to construct an innings and handle pressure makes him an important presence at number three. Shanto will also need to make effective bowling changes and use his spinners intelligently against a West Indies batting order that could be tested by conditions in Mirpur.

4. Mominul Haque

Mominul Haque is expected to strengthen the middle order with his experience and technique against spin. His ability to bat for extended periods could prove particularly valuable on a surface where patience may be rewarded. Mominul will aim to form partnerships with Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim while ensuring Bangladesh recover quickly if early wickets fall.

5. Mushfiqur Rahim

Veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim remains one of Bangladesh’s most experienced Test players. His composure and ability to build long innings could be essential against West Indies’ pace attack. Mushfiqur’s presence in the middle order should also help the younger batters settle and learn how to manage difficult passages of play.

6. Litton Das (wk)

Litton Das is expected to take the wicketkeeping duties after recovering from injury and earning selection in the squad. His aggressive batting could give Bangladesh momentum during the middle sessions, while his experience behind the stumps will be important against the hosts’ spin attack. His final selection will depend on his match fitness and the team’s assessment ahead of the toss.

7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz

Vice-captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz offers Bangladesh valuable balance as a bowling all-rounder. His off-spin could be particularly effective in home conditions, while his batting provides additional depth. Mehidy will be expected to build pressure through accurate spells and contribute useful runs if the top order fails to deliver a substantial total.

8. Taijul Islam

Taijul Islam is likely to lead Bangladesh’s spin attack. The left-arm spinner’s ability to bowl long spells and challenge batters with changes in flight makes him an important option at Mirpur. If the surface begins to turn, Taijul could play a decisive role in restricting West Indies and breaking established partnerships.

9. Nayeem Hasan

Nayeem Hasan could join Taijul and Mehidy to give Bangladesh three specialist spin options. His off-spin would provide Shanto with another way to attack West Indies’ right-handed batters. Nayeem’s accuracy and control will be important, particularly if Bangladesh look to keep the scoring rate under pressure during the middle overs.

10. Taskin Ahmed

Taskin Ahmed’s return to the squad strengthens Bangladesh’s pace attack. His ability to generate bounce and bowl with aggression could help the hosts make early breakthroughs before turning to spin. Taskin will need to maintain his discipline with the new ball and deliver effective spells against West Indies’ top order.

11. Hasan Mahmud

Hasan Mahmud is tipped to complete the predicted XI as the second specialist seamer. His inclusion would give Bangladesh another pace option alongside Taskin, allowing Shanto to rotate his bowlers according to conditions. Hasan will be expected to target a consistent length and exploit any movement available early in the innings.

Bangladesh’s Predicted Playing XI

1. Shadman Islam
2. Tanzid Hasan
3. Najmul Hossain Shanto (c)
4. Mominul Haque
5. Mushfiqur Rahim
6. Litton Das (wk)
7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
8. Taijul Islam
9. Nayeem Hasan
10. Taskin Ahmed
11. Hasan Mahmud

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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