BAN vs PAK 1st Test Playing 11: Bangladesh vs Pakistan Team News, Predicted Lineups

Bangladesh and Pakistan are set to lock horns in a two-match Test series. The first Test of the Pakistan tour of Bangladesh 2026 begins on May 8, 2026 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka.

The pitch at Mirpur is expected to be grassy and green, unusual for Bangladesh home Tests, offering seam movement and extra bounce. This could favour fast bowlers, especially in the first three days. Weather is forecast to be mostly cloudy with a low-to-moderate chance of rain. The conditions set up an exciting battle between Bangladesh’s spin strength and Pakistan’s world-class pace attack.

Bangladesh vs Pakistan Squads

BAN vs PAK Predicted Playing 11

Bangladesh are expected to field a spin-heavy attack with Mehidy, Taijul, and Nayeem, while relying on Taskin Ahmed and Nahid Rana for pace. Mushfiqur Rahim will handle wicket-keeping duties. Pakistan will likely go with a balanced side featuring strong top-order batting and a potent pace unit led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, supported by two spinners.

This match pits Bangladesh's home resilience and spin options against Pakistan's batting depth and fast-bowling firepower. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto's form and fitness, along with the debutants, will be key talking points.

Pakistan will be aiming to showcase their might against the Asian opponents. Pakistan occupy 5th place in the World Test Championship points table with a PCT of 50.00, and a series win with two Test wins can propel them upwards in the table. The Tigers are second bottom at 8th with a PCT of 16.67.

Bangladesh Predicted XI

Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana.

Pakistan Predicted XI

Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Fazal, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Khurram Shahzad.