Bangladesh team fought hard in the first Test against Sri Lanka and drew. Now they are going to face each other in the second and final Test in Colombo to decide the series. Before taking the field, the most discussed thing is what the Tigers’ XI will be like. Because there is almost certainly going to be a change in the visiting XI. If all goes well, Mehedi Hasan Miraj is going to return to the team after recovering from illness.
In that case, there is speculation about who will be left out of the Galle Test XI. The day before the match, head coach Phil Simmons did not say anything clear about the XI. Opener Enamul Haque Bijoy could not do well in the first Test. However, it is believed that he is going to get a chance in tomorrow’s match as well. At the same time, Miraj can return in place of Zaker Ali Anik. Apart from this, Ebadat Hossain can be seen in place of Nahid Rana.
Asked about Miraj’s return to the team, Simmons said, “You can see for sure that Miraj will play tomorrow (laughs). He is now the second best all-rounder in the world. His inclusion will increase the strength of the team with bat and ball. Miraj will do whatever he does. But the rest will also have to take responsibility.”
Later, in response to another question about the formation of the XI, head coach Simmons said, “I will decide it (the team combination) before the game. It will depend on the wickets tomorrow whether 3 spinners or 3 seamers (will play).” Nazmul Hossain Shanto and Dhananjaya de Silver’s team will face each other in the final Test in Colombo at 10:30 am Bangladesh time tomorrow.
Bangladesh’s probable XI for the final Test: Enamul Haque Bijoy, Sadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Mehedi Hasan Miraj, Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, Ebadat Hossain, Hasan Mahmud.
FAQ
Who is Mehidy Hasan Miraz and why is his return significant?
Mehidy Hasan Miraz is a key all-rounder for Bangladesh, known for his off-spin bowling and useful lower-order batting. His return can strengthen both the bowling attack and batting depth.
Is Miraz fully fit and available for the Colombo Test?
As of now, reports suggest he is likely to be fit and available. However, final confirmation will depend on the team’s medical staff assessment before the match.
If Miraz returns, who is most likely to be dropped from the XI?
If Miraz comes back, Bangladesh may consider dropping a pacer or a spin-bowling all-rounder like Nayeem Hasan or Taijul Islam, depending on the pitch conditions.
How does his inclusion impact the team balance?
Miraz adds flexibility to the side. He allows Bangladesh to play three spinners without weakening the batting. His presence also gives the captain more control in subcontinent conditions.
Will Bangladesh go with three spinners in Colombo?
Colombo pitches tend to assist spin, especially in the later stages. If conditions look spin-friendly, playing three spinners including Miraz, Shakib, and Taijul/Nayeem is a likely strategy.
