Toss has been delayed due to wet outfield

Today, August 21, the first Test of the Bangladesh-Pakistan series begins in Rawalpindi. Two days before the match, Pakistan announced their best XI. Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bowl first. The Tigers’ XI includes three pacers and two spin all-rounders.

Pakistan is not fielding any specialist spinners for the Rawalpindi Test, indicating the nature of the pitch. The bowling attack will be entirely pace-based. Led by Shan Masood, Pakistan will take the field with four pace bowlers. Despite the pace-friendly wicket, Bangladesh will rely on the spin of Shakib Al Hasan and Mehedi Hasan Miraz.

Opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy has been ruled out of this Test due to a thigh injury. In his place, Sadman Islam will open the innings with Zakir Hasan.

Babar Azam will be seen in a new role at number 4, while Saim Ayub will open with Abdullah Shafique. Captain Shan Masood will bat at number 3. Naseem Shah returns to red-ball cricket after 13 months, and Mohammad Ali has also been included in the best XI alongside Shaheen Shah Afridi.

The first Test will be held from August 21-25 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The match will start at 11:30 AM Bangladesh time.