Anamul Haque Returns As Bangladesh Announce Squad For The Second Test Against Zimbabwe

The Bangladesh national cricket team finds itself in a moment of reckoning as it gears up for the second and final Test against Zimbabwe, starting April 28, 2025, at the iconic Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram. After a nerve-wracking three-wicket loss in the first Test at Sylhet, the Tigers have no margin for error. A refreshed squad, a key comeback, and some strategic tweaks reflect the urgency and determination in the Bangladesh camp to level the series.

First Test Recap: A Game of Fine Margins

The opening Test was a gripping affair that swung like a pendulum till the very end. Batting collapses, gritty fightbacks, and a final-session climax made it a classic. Zimbabwe, often seen as the underdogs in Asian conditions, displayed impressive resilience to chase down 265, registering a three-wicket win on foreign soil.

Bangladesh, despite a promising start and glimpses of individual brilliance—especially from Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam—could not capitalize during key moments. Missed opportunities with the bat and lack of sustained pressure with the ball cost them dearly. Zimbabwe’s lower order, led by some fearless strokeplay, proved to be the ultimate difference.

Now, with the Chattogram Test being a do-or-die situation, Bangladesh has opted to shake things up in hopes of regaining control.

A Familiar Face Returns: Anamul Haque Back in Whites

One of the headline-making moves ahead of the second Test is the return of experienced opener Anamul Haque Bijoy. The 32-year-old, who last donned the whites in 2022, has forced his way back into contention with stellar domestic form. His recent exploits in the Dhaka Premier Division Cricket League, where he etched his name in the record books by becoming the first Bangladeshi batter to score 50 centuries in recognized cricket, have reignited faith in his abilities.

Anamul brings with him not only technique and temperament but a wealth of experience that can steady a fragile top order. Bangladesh’s recent struggles with opening partnerships have often left the middle order under pressure early, and the selectors will be hoping that Anamul can offer stability alongside either Mahmudul Hasan Joy or Shadman Islam.

His last Test stint may have been underwhelming, but this comeback has a narrative of redemption written all over it. In front of a passionate home crowd in Chattogram, Anamul will look to seize this second wind in his Test career.

Fresh Blood: Tanvir Islam Set for Potential Debut

Bangladesh’s second change is the inclusion of left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam, who has been rewarded for his consistent performances in domestic cricket and for Bangladesh A. A proven performer in first-class cricket, Tanvir offers a different angle of attack compared to orthodox finger spinners like Taijul and Nayeem.

Replacing Nahid Rana, who will instead feature for Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, Tanvir adds variety to the spin-heavy Bangladesh attack, especially on a pitch that is traditionally friendly to tweakers. If included in the playing XI, his debut will be closely watched, especially considering how Bangladesh has long been searching for a quality third spin option to back up Taijul and Miraz.

The selectors’ decision to invest in Tanvir while keeping Rana available for T20 cricket also speaks to Bangladesh’s evolving cricket calendar management, as players increasingly juggle national commitments and franchise leagues.

The Dropped and the Retained: Zakir Hasan Out

The flip side of Anamul’s return is the omission of Zakir Hasan, who did not feature in the playing XI in the first Test. Once considered a promising long-term solution at the top, Zakir’s exclusion reflects both the team’s shifting priorities and his own inconsistencies. With more options now available in the opening department, the competition for places is heating up—something that might serve Bangladesh well in the long run.

Bangladesh Squad for the Second Test vs Zimbabwe:

Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain)
Mahmudul Hasan Joy
Shadman Islam
Anamul Haque Bijoy
Mominul Haque
Mushfiqur Rahim
Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan Ankon
Jaker Ali Anik
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Vice-Captain)
Taijul Islam
Nayeem Hasan
Tanvir Islam
Hasan Mahmud
Syed Khaled Ahmed
Tanzim Hasan Sakib

This blend of experience and youth, especially in the spin and batting departments, suggests a more balanced approach heading into a must-win encounter.

The Home Advantage: Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium

The return to Chattogram couldn’t come at a better time for Bangladesh. The Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium has traditionally been a fortress for the Tigers, known for its slow and low wickets that suit Bangladesh’s spin-heavy strategy. The likes of Taijul and Mehidy have thrived here, and with the addition of Tanvir, the team now possesses a triple spin threat capable of weaving a web around the Zimbabwean batters.

Zimbabwe’s High: Momentum on Their Side

Zimbabwe, on the other hand, will walk into Chattogram brimming with confidence. Their victory in the first Test wasn’t a fluke—it was hard-earned. Their ability to weather Bangladesh’s spin, as well as contributions from both experienced players and young guns, has suddenly made them a serious threat in this series.

However, Chattogram will test their adaptability. Can they resist spin for two more innings? Will they rotate strike better, or crumble under pressure? While Zimbabwe may have the edge in momentum, conditions could tilt the balance back toward the hosts.

What Needs to Change for Bangladesh?

1. Better batting partnerships: The lack of partnerships cost Bangladesh dearly in Sylhet. Batsmen got starts but failed to convert. The team must focus on building long, grind-it-out stands that wear down the opposition.

2. Aggressive mindset in fielding: Catching and fielding lapses allowed Zimbabwe to sneak back into the game. Bangladesh needs sharper reflexes and commitment in the field, especially when defending totals.

3. Tactical bowling: Over-reliance on spin with little variation allowed Zimbabwe’s lower-order to target bowlers. Captain Shanto must rotate bowlers more smartly and consider aggressive field placements.

4. Leadership: Najmul Hossain Shanto, still finding his footing as Test captain, needs to assert himself. Clear field placements, quick decisions, and proactive leadership can help Bangladesh control the narrative better.

What to Expect in the Second Test?

This second Test will not just be a battle of skills but of nerve, temperament, and strategy. Bangladesh will come out determined to erase the heartbreak of Sylhet, and the crowd will expect no less. With Anamul’s return, Miraz’s experience, and a promising debutant in Tanvir, the Tigers look far better prepared this time.

Expect a turning pitch, closely fought sessions, and perhaps a few surprises from both sides. For Bangladesh, this is more than just a series-levelling opportunity—it’s a statement of intent, a test of leadership, and a chance to restore national pride.

Final Word: A Crucial Test for the Tigers

As April 28 approaches, Chattogram will be the stage where Bangladesh must summon every ounce of grit, skill, and team spirit. The Tigers cannot afford to slip again. Zimbabwe may have struck the first blow, but with smart selections and home advantage, Bangladesh has all the ingredients to bounce back.

This is more than a Test match—it’s a test of character.

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