A Test match against Zimbabwe is perfect opportunity for Bangladesh to register their first victory of 2021 in the format. They have lost three and drawn one Test match this year, against Sri Lanka home and away.
There is still no official update on Tamim Iqbal’s injury. Tamim has been the most consistent batter for Bangladesh in recent time, notching three half-centuries in his last two games.
If Tamim does not recover, Shadman Islam is likely to open the innings with Saif Hasan. Shakib Al Hasan’s inclusion will bolster the team balance. The surface in Harare has always been conducive to spin. Mehidy Hasan Miraz is likely to be the second spinner of the side, alongside Shakib.
On the fast bowling front, the visitors are likely to go ahead with Shoriful Islam, Abu Jayed and Taskin Ahmed.
Zimbabwe were clean swept by Pakistan at home a couple of months ago. Now, Brendon Taylor will be taking over the captaincy duty in the absence of Sean Williams. Williams and Craig Ervine have to observe self-isolation after coming in close contact with Covid-19-affected family members.
Williams missed the last series against Pakistan as well due to an injury. His last appearance for the national side came in March against Afghanistan, where he made an unbeaten 151.
Head to Head:
Both teams are tied with seven wins each.
Probable XIs
Zimbabwe: Kevin Kasuza, Tarisai Musakanda, Brendan Taylor (c), Milton Shumba, Joylord Gumbie, Regis Chakabva (wk), Donald Tiripano, Roy Kaia, Victor Nyauchi, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani
Pakistan: Tamim Iqbal/Shadman Islam, Saif Hassan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mominul Haque (c), Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Abu Jayed, Shoriful Islam
Prediction:
Bangladesh to emerge victorious.