Soumya, Jaker return as Bangladesh name Test squad for Australia tour, Shanto to lead

Bangladesh have finalized their plans for a challenging Test assignment on Australian soil by announcing a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match series. The biggest talking points are the returns of Soumya Sarkar and wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali Anik, both of whom have earned recalls to the Test setup after a long absence.

The batting unit features a blend of experience and youth, with Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Amin Hasan, Soumya Sarkar and Jaker Ali Anik included in the lineup.

In the bowling department, Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam will spearhead the spin attack, while Taskin Ahmed will lead the pace unit alongside Hasan Mahmud, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury and Mushfik Hasan.

The first Test of the two-match series will begin on August 13 at Marrara Cricket Ground in Darwin. The second and final Test is scheduled to start on August 21 at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay.

Bangladesh Test squad:

Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Soumya Sarkar, Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Amin Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vice-captain), Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Syed Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury and Mushfik Hasan.