Pakistan kick off Bangladesh test mission as PCB chairman lands in Dhaka

A fierce red-ball showdown kicked off in Dhaka as Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first against Bangladesh in the opening Test at Mirpur, setting the stage for a thrilling battle between two dangerous pace attacks.

The contest revives one of the most talked-about rivalries from 2024, when Bangladesh stunned Pakistan with a historic 2-0 Test series sweep in Rawalpindi. Now, both sides return to the longest format after a six-month gap, eager to make a statement.

Pakistan enter the series without star batter Babar Azam, who has been ruled out of the first Test with a left knee injury. His absence opens the door for a potential debutant at the top of the order alongside Imam-ul-Haq.

All eyes will be on Pakistan’s bowling unit featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sajid Khan, and Noman Ali, while Bangladesh counter with their fiery pace quartet led by Nahid Rana and Taskin Ahmed.

Veteran Mushfiqur Rahim remains a key threat for the hosts after his memorable performances against Pakistan in previous meetings.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi arrived in Dhaka on a two-day visit ahead of the Test. He was welcomed by Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Saim and Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Haider.

With rain expected early but conditions likely to favour fast bowlers, Mirpur is set for an intense contest packed with speed, spin, and redemption.