Anamul Haque Returns as BCB announce Squad for Second Test

Anamul Haque returns as BCB announce Squad after a gap of nearly three years, as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday announced a 15-member lineup for the second Test against Zimbabwe. The match is scheduled to take place at the Bir Shrestha Flight Lieutenant Motiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram starting from April 28.

This selection marks a significant moment in Anamul’s career, as the opener has been in sensational form in domestic cricket. His performances in the ongoing Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League have turned heads, especially after he became the first Bangladeshi batter to score 50 centuries in recognised cricket. His return could inject valuable experience and firepower into the top order, especially with the series finely poised.

Anamul last featured in a Test match back in 2022, and his comeback shows how consistent domestic performances can still open doors at the international level. At 32, he brings not just runs, but maturity and hunger for a strong Test revival. His inclusion replaces Zakir Hasan, who didn’t get a chance in the first Test and has now been left out of the squad.

Anamul Haque Returns as BCB Announce Squad for 2nd Test with Fresh Changes and New Hopes

In addition to Anamul’s return, the squad also sees another significant change. Young pacer Nahid Rana has been left out, with uncapped left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam earning his maiden Test call-up. The move to include Tanvir seems like a strategic one, especially considering the spin-friendly conditions expected in Chattogram. Rana, meanwhile, is reportedly set to participate for Peshawar Zalmi in the ongoing Pakistan Super League, which may have influenced the decision.

This Test will be a crucial one for Bangladesh as they aim to secure a series win at home. The first Test was closely contested, and the team management appears to be strengthening the squad with the right mix of youth and experience. The leadership group remains the same, with Najmul Hossain Shanto continuing as captain and Mehidy Hasan Miraz acting as vice-captain.

There is also a healthy blend of options in both departments. The spin department will now be bolstered by the presence of Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, and debutant Tanvir Islam, while the pace attack will rely on the likes of Hasan Mahmud, Syed Khaled Ahmed, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib. Veteran batters like Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim will add solidity in the middle, while newcomers like Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan Ankon and Jaker Ali Anik are likely to provide fresh energy.

The BCB has clearly rewarded consistent domestic performers while also planning strategically for the conditions ahead. All eyes will now be on how Anamul Haque performs in his comeback match — a strong showing could cement his place ahead of a busy calendar year for Bangladesh cricket.

Full Squad for Second Test vs Zimbabwe:

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