Introduction
Cricket fever is about to hit the boiling point again as Bangladesh takes on Pakistan in a highly anticipated Test match scheduled for Thursday, July 24. This match promises all of that and more. Test cricket, which is frequently referred to as the finest form of the game, offers drama, strategy, and resilience. But this isn’t just any match; it’s a clash packed with context, history, and emotion.
Importance of the Test Series
This series isn’t just about points on the World Test Championship table. For both nations, it’s a matter of pride, legacy, and proving their mettle in the red-ball arena. With young talents rising and seasoned veterans eyeing one last hurrah, the stakes are sky-high.
Historical Rivalry Between Bangladesh and Pakistan
The history between these two sides is rich. Pakistan, once a cricketing giant for Bangladesh before independence, now faces a confident side determined to forge its path. Bangladesh has surprised many people over the years, particularly at home, despite Pakistan’s historical dominance in Test cricket.
Match Preview
Venue Details and Weather Conditions
The match will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, a venue that has witnessed numerous iconic moments in cricket. Weather-wise, the monsoon season could play its part—intermittent rain showers are expected, but drainage in this area is excellent.
Pitch Report and Playing Surface
Expect a slow, turning track. This pitch typically offers some bounce early on Day 1 before slowing down. Spinners could rule the roost from Day 3 onwards, making the toss a potentially match-defining factor.
Match Timing and Broadcast Info
- Time: 10:00 AM BST | 9:30 AM PKT
- Live Telecast: Gazi TV (BD), PTV Sports (PK)
- Live Streaming: FanCode, ARY ZAP, and Rabbithole BD (digital)
Team Analysis
Bangladesh Squad Overview
A blend of youth and experience, Bangladesh comes into this series with renewed confidence.
Key Players to Watch
- Shakib Al Hasan: The heartbeat of Bangladesh cricket.
- Litton Das: The stylish batter with a solid Test record.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Crucial on a turning track.
Recent Form and Performance
Despite a series loss to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh has shown growth, especially in batting partnerships and home-ground utilisation.
Pakistan Squad Overview
With a fiery pace attack and technically sound batters, Pakistan looks solid on paper.
Key Players to Watch
- Babar Azam: Pure class with the bat.
- Shaheen Afridi: Deadly with the new ball.
- Abrar Ahmed: Mystery spinner who could be vital.
Strengths and Weaknesses
While their bowling is world-class, inconsistent middle-order performances have haunted Pakistan in recent tests.
Head-to-Head Record
Overall Test Match Statistics
- Total Matches: 12
- Pakistan Wins: 10
- Bangladesh Wins: 0
- Draws: 2
Last 5 Encounters in Tests
Pakistan has had the upper hand, but Bangladesh has stretched games into Day 4 and 5—a sign of growing resilience.
Key Battles to Watch
Babar Azam vs Shoriful Islam
A classic match-up between an elegant batter and a hungry left-arm pacer. Can Shoriful break through early?
Litton Das vs Shaheen Afridi
This duel will be a battle of technique versus aggression. Shaheen’s inswingers could test Litton’s off-stump discipline.
Spin Duel: Mehidy Hasan vs Abrar Ahmed
This could be a spin-fest, especially after Day 2. Either spinner could determine the outcome of the match.
Predicted Playing XIs
Bangladesh Predicted XI
- Mahmudul Hasan Joy
- Zakir Hasan
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (C)
- Mominul Haque
- Litton Das (WK)
- Shakib Al Hasan
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Taijul Islam
- Shoriful Islam
- Khaled Ahmed
- Nayeem Hasan
Pakistan Predicted XI
- Abdullah Shafique
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Shan Masood (C)
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Sarfaraz Ahmed (WK)
- Faheem Ashraf
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Abrar Ahmed
- Nauman Ali
Tactical Approaches
Bangladesh’s Strategy on Home Turf
The Tigers will rely a lot on spins and runs in the first inning. Batting time and letting the spinners do the talking will be the plan.
Pakistan’s Game Plan Away from Home
Pakistan will likely lean on their quicks early, hoping to wrap up Bangladesh cheaply, then build a commanding lead through their top-order batters.
Player Form and Stats
Top Run Scorers (Last 5 Tests)
- Bangladesh: Litton Das – 342 runs
- Pakistan: Babar Azam – 401 runs
Leading Wicket Takers
- Bangladesh: Taijul Islam – 18 wickets
- Pakistan: Shaheen Afridi – 21 wickets
Recent Performances
Bangladesh’s Last 5 Test Matches
- L vs Sri Lanka
- W vs Afghanistan
- L vs India
- D vs Zimbabwe
- W vs Ireland
Pakistan’s Last 5 Test Matches
- L vs Australia
- W vs Sri Lanka
- L vs England
- W vs Bangladesh
- D vs West Indies
Injuries and Player Updates
- Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal ruled out due to back issues.
- Pakistan: Haris Rauf rested for workload management.
Expert Opinions and Predictions
Cricket analysts suggest that Pakistan has the edge due to its experience, but many believe that Bangladesh’s home advantage could neutralize that.
Predicted Result: Draw or narrow Pakistan win—but if Bangladesh’s spinners click early, an upset is on the cards.
Fan Expectations and Social Buzz
Social media is buzzing with excitement. Hashtags like #BANvPAK and #MirpurTest are already trending in both countries.
Match Day Atmosphere
Ticket Sales and Crowd Anticipation
Tickets are nearly sold out. Expect a packed house at Mirpur, complete with drums, flags, and an electric atmosphere.
Special Events and Celebrations
Before the toss, the BCB has arranged an homage to Mashrafe Mortaza, which is an excellent gesture for both players and fans.
Conclusion
The Bangladesh vs. Pakistan Test match on Thursday, July 24, is more than just another red-ball fixture—it’s a clash of intent, pride, and evolving legacies. Whether you’re rooting for the Bengal Tigers or the Men in Green, this match promises five days of gripping cricket drama. Stay tuned and don’t blink—you might miss a match-turning moment.
FAQs
Q1. Who has the upper hand in Bangladesh vs. Pakistan tests?
Historically, Pakistan has dominated, but Bangladesh is becoming increasingly competitive, especially domestically.
Q2. Where is the match being played on July 24?
In Mirpur, Dhaka, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Q3. How can I watch the match live?
On TV via Gazi TV and PTV Sports, and digitally through FanCode and Rabbithole BD.
Q4. What is the historical record between the two teams?
Out of 12 tests, Pakistan has won 10, while Bangladesh is yet to secure a victory.
Q5. Which players are in red-hot form?
Babar Azam, Litton Das, Shaheen Afridi, and Mehidy Hasan are all delivering top performances.