SYLHET: Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first in the second and final Test against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Saturday, as they look to level the series and keep their ICC World Test Championship hopes alive.
Pakistan made three changes to their playing XI, most notably recalling star batter Babar Azam after recovery from injury, who replaced Imam-ul-Haq. The visitors also included fast bowler Khurram Shahzad and spinner Sajid Khan, while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Noman Ali were left out of the side.
Bangladesh lead the two-match series 1-0 after securing a convincing 104-run victory in the opening Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. In that match, Pakistan were bowled out for just 163 while chasing 268, giving the hosts a strong advantage in the series.
With the series on the line, Pakistan captain Shan Masood will be hoping for a strong response from his side. The return of Babar Azam adds experience and stability to the batting lineup, while the team will aim for an improved all-round performance to stay alive in the contest.
Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, have retained a settled and balanced squad featuring experienced players including Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das, and all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz. The hosts will look to capitalize on home conditions to seal a memorable series victory.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Azan Awais, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Abdullah Fazal, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Khurram Shahzad, Sajid Khan, Hassan Ali, Muhammad Abbas.
Bangladesh: Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumar Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.
Three changes to our playing XI 🇵🇰#BANvPAK pic.twitter.com/OMANKPQWMz
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) May 16, 2026
With pride, momentum, and valuable World Test Championship points at stake, the Sylhet Test promises a high-intensity battle as Pakistan fight to level the series, while Bangladesh aim to complete a dominant home triumph.
