Chennai: Bangladesh Cricket has announced its squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against India, incorporating only one change from the team that secured a 2-0 series win against Pakistan. The inclusion of uncapped keeper-batter Jaker Ali Anik, replacing the injured pacer Shoriful Islam, marks a strategic adjustment for the team as they prepare for a critical phase in the ICC World Test Championship.

According to International Cricket Council, the selection of Jaker Ali Anik comes on the heels of his impressive performance for Bangladesh A, where he scored a century against Pakistan A. Despite being uncapped in Test cricket, Anik has experience in the shorter formats, having played 17 T20 International matches, including four at this year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

The team will miss the services of Shoriful Islam, who is still recovering from a groin injury sustained during the first Test against Pakistan. The upcoming series, set to begin on September 19 in Chennai and concluding in Kanpur on September 27, presents a significant challenge for Bangladesh, currently fourth in the World Test Championship standings, with India leading the table.

The Bangladesh squad features a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, with Najmul Hossain Shanto leading as captain. The lineup includes notable names such as Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shakib Al Hasan, and Mushfiqur Rahim, all expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s strategy against a strong Indian side.