Bangladesh Banks on Shakib Al Hasan for Success Against Pakistan

In the opening test of their two-match series against Pakistan, Bangladesh is counting on all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan to make a significant impact. Despite the political turmoil back home, Shakib, who has extensive experience, is expected to stand strong against Pakistan's formidable pace attack led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah.

Bangladesh is looking to its star all-rounder and former lawmaker Shakib Al Hasan to deliver a standout performance against Pakistan in the upcoming test series starting Wednesday.

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto emphasized Shakib's professionalism, noting his long-standing experience in the game. 'He's a professional cricketer and we all treat him as such,' Shanto said on the eve of the first test match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Despite the political unrest in Bangladesh, which disrupted their preparations, the team arrived in Pakistan four days early to secure extra practice time in Lahore.

Rawalpindi is set to host both test matches, which are part of the World Test Championship. Pakistan currently ranks sixth, while Bangladesh sits in eighth place.

Pakistan's impressive record against Bangladesh includes victories in 12 out of 13 matches. However, Shanto remains optimistic despite the daunting task of facing Pakistan's strong pace attack.

This series will also mark the debut of Pakistan's new red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie. Captain Shan Masood is hopeful that lessons learned from past matches will guide the team to victory.

Masood highlighted the favorable conditions in Rawalpindi for seam and pace, which influenced his decision to go with an all-out pace attack, including fast bowlers like Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali.

(With inputs from agencies.)