Pakistan Predicted Playing XI vs Bangladesh, 2nd Test 2026: Babar Azam Set for Return
Pakistan’s Battle for Redemption in Sylhet
Following a demoralizing defeat in the first Test, the Pakistan cricket team faces a must-win situation in the second and final Test against Bangladesh, set to take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on May 16, 2026. With the series on the line and pride at stake, the Men in Green are making strategic changes to counter a strong home performance by Bangladesh.
A Batting Unit Under Pressure
Pakistan’s batting collapsed under pressure in Dhaka, exposing serious vulnerabilities against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling attack. While Azan Awais stood tall with a century in the first innings, veterans like Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, and Imam-ul-Haq failed to deliver.
Despite shaky returns, Imam-ul-Haq is expected to retain his place at the top, bringing experience to a fragile opening order. Youngster Azan Awais, fresh off a brilliant hundred, is certain to continue after proving his composure under pressure.
Babar Azam Returns
The biggest development? Babar Azam is back. Recovering from a knee injury that kept him out of the first Test, Babar is set to rejoin the squad and slot in at number four—a position where his calm and technical brilliance can stabilize the innings.
His return likely spells the end of Saud Shakeel’s inclusion, who managed only 15 runs across two innings. While Shakeel’s technique is sound, the team needs impactful contributions—and fast.
Abdullah Fazal and the Middle-Order Shake-Up
Abdullah Fazal, another emerging talent, impressed with 126 runs across both innings and is expected to remain at number three. His resilience could be critical if early wickets fall on what might be a tricky Sylhet pitch.
Captain Shan Masood, despite scoring just 11 runs in Dhaka, retains his spot at number five. Leadership roles often come with extra leeway, but Masood will be under immense pressure to deliver with the bat.
Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha form a dynamic duo in the lower middle order. Rizwan’s 59 in the first innings was a lone fight, while Agha’s aggressive intent adds balance against Bangladesh’s spin-heavy attack.
Spin Strategy: Sajid Khan Over Noman Ali
A key change in the bowling department could see Sajid Khan replace Noman Ali. Sajid brings all-round value—both with his crafty off-spin and lower-order batting depth.
His experience in subcontinental conditions makes him a strong candidate, especially if the Sylhet pitch favors turn. While Noman Ali remains a specialist spinner, Pakistan may prioritize Sajid’s ability to bat, given their top-order fragility.
Pace Attack Remains Intact
Shaheen Afridi remains the spearhead of the pace attack after claiming five wickets in the first Test. His ability to swing the ball and generate bounce makes him a constant threat.
Hasan Ali and Mohammad Abbas are expected to keep their spots. Abbas was particularly effective, picking up five wickets in the first innings to dismantle Bangladesh’s batting lineup. Hasan contributed crucial scalps in the second innings, showing his value in building pressure.
However, the final combination may depend on pitch conditions. If Sylhet offers significant turn, Pakistan could opt for two spinners and one pacer, possibly benching Abbas for Noman Ali.
Pakistan Predicted Playing XI vs Bangladesh, 2nd Test 2026
- Azan Awais
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Abdullah Fazal
- Babar Azam
- Shan Masood (c)
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Salman Ali Agha
- Sajid Khan
- Shaheen Afridi
- Hasan Ali
- Mohammad Abbas
What’s at Stake?
A win for Pakistan means a series draw and a chance to regroup with confidence. A loss means a 2-0 whitewash for Bangladesh—a historic result on home soil. The pressure is on, the changes are in, and Sylhet awaits a redemption story.
