Bangladesh have been forced to make a change to their line-up for the opening Test against West Indies after experienced wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim was ruled out with an injury to his right index finger. The hosts won the toss and elected to bat first at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, as the two-match series got under way.
Mushfiq picked up the injury during training on the eve of the match, raising doubts about his availability. Despite being monitored by the team’s medical staff, his condition had shown little improvement by the morning of the opening Test. Bangladesh therefore opted not to include him in the playing XI.
National team physiotherapist Bayezidul Islam said Mushfiq had injured the index finger of his right hand during the previous day’s training session. The injury was assessed, but there was no significant improvement by match morning. The medical team hoped that he would recover within three days, leaving open the possibility of his return for the second Test.
Mushfiq’s absence represents a setback for Bangladesh, given his experience and importance to the side. Over the course of his international career, he has contributed significantly with the bat and served as a wicketkeeper in the longest format. His ability to build innings and handle pressure has made him a valuable member of the Test team, and his absence places additional responsibility on the remaining batters.
Towhid Hridoy has been selected to replace Mushfiq in the line-up. Hridoy made his Test debut against Zimbabwe in June, and the opening match against West Indies marks only his second appearance in the format. The opportunity gives the batter a chance to gain further experience and demonstrate his ability to contribute at Test level.
With Bangladesh choosing to bat first, the performance of their top and middle order will be particularly important. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the batting effort, while Hridoy will be expected to make the most of his opportunity in the absence of one of the side’s most experienced players. A disciplined approach will be essential against a West Indies attack featuring both pace and spin.
Bangladesh have selected two fast bowlers, Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud, alongside three specialist spinners: Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan and Taijul Islam. The combination gives the hosts several bowling options and could prove useful if the Mirpur surface offers assistance to spin as the match progresses.
West Indies have also opted for a varied bowling attack, including two fast bowlers and two specialist spinners. Their selection provides flexibility to challenge Bangladesh’s batters under different conditions.
The opening match offers both teams an opportunity to gain an early advantage in the two-Test series. Bangladesh will be looking to make the most of home conditions, while West Indies will aim to put the hosts under pressure. For the home side, attention will also remain on Mushfiq’s recovery, with his potential return for the second Test dependent on how quickly the finger injury heals.
Bangladesh playing XI: Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Tanzid Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Litton Das, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Taijul Islam and Shoriful Islam.
West Indies playing XI: John Campbell, Brandon King, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Kavem Hodge, Amir Jangoo, Roston Chase, Justin Greaves, Joshua Bishop, Shamar Joseph, Jomel Warrican and Jayden Seales.
