Mahidul Replaces Injured Liton in Test Squad

Wicketkeeper-batter Liton Das has been ruled out of Bangladesh’s upcoming Test assignment against Zimbabwe due to a muscle injury, opening the door for Mahidul Islam Ankon to earn a late call-up to the national Test squad.

Mahidul, who was originally named in the Bangladesh Emerging squad for the second four-day match against Zimbabwe, received the unexpected promotion shortly after the senior Test squad was announced. As a result, he will now abandon the Emerging team’s fixture in Sylhet on 24 June and instead fly out to Zimbabwe to join the senior side.

Liton sustained a muscle strain during the third One-Day International against Australia. The injury not only sidelined him from the subsequent T20I series but has also ruled him out of international action for the foreseeable future. Despite medical supervision from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) medical panel, he has not recovered in time for the Zimbabwe tour.

Bangladesh have already endured a difficult run in his absence. Following Liton’s injury, the side suffered a series whitewash in the T20Is against Australia, with leadership duties and wicketkeeping responsibilities heavily affected. His continued absence is therefore considered a significant setback for team balance and experience.

The selectors have opted for Mahidul, a 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who previously made his Test debut in 2024 against South Africa. That match remains his only appearance in the longest format so far, making this recall an important opportunity to re-establish himself at international level.

The Test series against Zimbabwe is scheduled to begin on 28 June in Harare, marking the sole Test of the tour. Bangladesh will also play three One-Day Internationals and T20 Internationals on the same tour. Meanwhile, the Test squad—led by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto—has already seen a portion of the squad depart ahead of schedule for Zimbabwe to begin preparation.

Squad Update Overview

Mahidul’s inclusion is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s wicketkeeping options while offering a fresh batting alternative in challenging overseas conditions. Selectors will be hoping the reshuffle helps stabilise a side still adjusting to Liton’s absence across all formats.