Pakistan won the toss and elected to field first against Bangladesh in the opening Test match being played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.
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The two-match Test series got underway with Pakistan opting to make early use of the conditions, hoping their bowlers can capitalise on any movement available in the opening session.
The match also marks a memorable occasion for two young Pakistani cricketers, Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal, who are making their Test debuts. Both players have been included in the playing XI as Pakistan looks to test fresh talent in the longer format.
🚨 TOSS & PLAYING XI 🚨
Pakistan win the toss and opt to field first against Bangladesh 🏏
Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal are making their Test debut 💫#BANvPAK pic.twitter.com/RyeuELYiMt
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) May 8, 2026
Their inclusion has generated interest among fans, with selectors appearing focused on strengthening the squad’s bench depth and preparing younger players for future international assignments.
Pakistan entered the match without former captain Babar Azam, who is unavailable due to a knee injury. His absence is a significant talking point ahead of the series, given his importance to Pakistan’s batting lineup and overall experience in Test cricket.
The team management, however, has backed the available squad to perform well despite missing one of their key players. The opening Test is expected to provide an opportunity for other batters to step up and fill the gap left by Babar’s absence.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, will look to take advantage of home conditions and put up a competitive total after being asked to bat first. Playing in familiar conditions, the hosts are aiming to begin the series strongly against a Pakistan side seeking consistency in overseas Tests.
The second and final Test between the two teams is scheduled to begin on May 16 in Sylhet, where both sides will hope to carry momentum from the series opener.
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With fresh faces in Pakistan’s lineup, an injury-enforced absence and testing subcontinental conditions, the opening Test in Dhaka promises an important start to the two-match series between the Asian rivals.