Hridoy, Jaker return for Afghanistan Test, Taskin rested

Bangladesh have recalled Tawhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali Anik for their one-off Test against Afghanistan in the United Arab Emirates, while pacer Taskin Ahmed has been rested.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced a 15-member squad led by Najmul Hossain Shanto on Saturday.

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Hridoy returns after making a record 350-plus score for Bangladesh ‘A’ in South Africa. The right-hander made his Test debut against Zimbabwe in June but was left out of the squad for the subsequent tour of Australia.

Jaker, who also made his Test debut against Zimbabwe and travelled to Australia, returns at the expense of Amit Hasan. Chief selector Habibul Bashar Sumon said Jaker's strong performances for the ‘A’ team earned him the recall.

Nahid Rana, meanwhile, has not been included as he continues his recovery from injury. Bashar indicated that the fast bowler is being targeted for Bangladesh's home Test against the West Indies.

The pace attack for the Afghanistan Test features Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain and Shoriful Islam, with Taskin left out for rest.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam remain the main spin options.

Off-spinner Nayeem Hasan and young pacers Mushfik Hasan and Iqbal Hossain Emon will travel with the squad as reserves.

Bangladesh will play the one-off Test against Afghanistan on October 9 in the UAE.