Rawalpindi: The Pakistan men’s cricket team is set to commence their Test season with a two-match series against Bangladesh, starting this Wednesday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The series opener marks a busy season for Pakistan, featuring nine Test matches, the most since the 1998-99 season.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board, the team, currently ranked sixth in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25, has already contested series against Sri Lanka and Australia. This season includes seven home matches: two against Bangladesh, three against England in October, and two against West Indies in January next year, with two additional away matches in South Africa.

The series against Bangladesh will be notable as Jason Gillespie’s first international coaching assignment for Pakistan and Shan Masood’s debut as captain on home soil. The first ball is scheduled for 10:00 AM following the coin toss at 9:30 AM, with live broadcasts on A-Sports, PTV Sports, and Ten Sports.

Tickets for the matches are available online and at the physical booth on Aviation Ground, opposite Rescue 1122 on Rawal Road, aiming to ensure accessibility for fans.

Previewing the series, Pakistan captain Shan Masood expressed his excitement and determination for the upcoming matches, emphasizing the team’s preparation and the significance of the series in their broader season context. Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto also shared his expectations for the series, highlighting the practice sessions in Lahore and the importance of adapting to the conditions.

The player lineups include key figures such as Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi for Pakistan, with Bangladesh featuring Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim. Match officials include Adrian Holdstock and Richard Kettleborough as on-field umpires, with Michael Gough serving as the third umpire.