Bangladesh are set to take on Afghanistan in a one-off Test at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, with the five-day contest beginning on October 9. The Tigers will enter the match with considerable confidence after drawing their two-Test series against Australia 1-1, including a historic nine-wicket victory in Darwin.

Najmul Hossain Shanto will continue to lead Bangladesh in the longest format, while the squad contains a blend of experienced campaigners and players looking to cement their places in the Test side. The selectors have also brought back Towhid Hridoy and Jaker Ali Anik after impressive performances in domestic and Bangladesh A cricket.

With the Abu Dhabi surface expected to assist spinners as the match progresses, Bangladesh could opt for a combination of three frontline pacers and two specialist spinners. Here is the predicted playing XI for the Tigers.

1. Shadman Islam

Shadman Islam is expected to open the innings and provide the solid foundation Bangladesh need at the top. The left-hander is comfortable playing long innings and could be particularly important against Afghanistan’s varied bowling attack.

His ability to leave the ball outside off stump and occupy the crease should complement the more aggressive approach of his opening partner.

2. Tanzid Hasan

Tanzid Hasan is likely to partner Shadman at the top. The young left-hander arrives with considerable confidence after scoring his maiden Test century against Australia in Darwin.

His aggressive strokeplay can put pressure on Afghanistan’s bowlers during the first session, while his recent success in Australia gives him valuable momentum heading into the UAE Test. Bangladesh will hope he can convert another strong start into a substantial score.

3. Najmul Hossain Shanto (c)

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto should slot into the No. 3 position. The left-hander remains one of Bangladesh’s most important Test batters and will have the additional responsibility of leading the side.

Shanto’s ability to control the tempo of an innings could prove vital, particularly if Afghanistan’s spinners start operating in tandem during the middle overs.

4. Mominul Haque

Mominul Haque is expected to retain his place in the middle order. One of Bangladesh’s most experienced Test batters, Mominul brings a wealth of experience and an ability to build long innings.

His technique against spin could become particularly important in Abu Dhabi, where Afghanistan are likely to test Bangladesh with their slower bowlers.

5. Mushfiqur Rahim (wk)

Mushfiqur Rahim should continue as Bangladesh’s primary wicketkeeper-batter. His experience makes him a crucial component of the middle order, while his glovework gives the team stability behind the stumps.

With Litton Das also in the squad, the selectors have a strong wicketkeeping option available, but Mushfiqur’s experience and batting pedigree should keep him ahead in the pecking order.

6. Litton Das

Litton Das is likely to bat at No. 6, giving Bangladesh another experienced right-handed batter in the middle order.

While his role could change depending on the match situation, Litton has the ability to accelerate when required and can also build a partnership with the lower middle order.

7. Mehidy Hasan Miraz

Mehidy Hasan Miraz should be one of Bangladesh’s biggest weapons in Abu Dhabi. The all-rounder provides balance to the side with his off-spin and reliable lower-order batting.

He was instrumental in Bangladesh’s historic Test victory over Australia, claiming a five-wicket haul in Darwin. His ability to extract turn and maintain pressure for long spells could make him a major threat against Afghanistan.

8. Taijul Islam

Taijul Islam is expected to partner Mehidy in the spin department. The left-arm spinner has been one of Bangladesh’s most consistent Test wicket-takers and has a strong record against Afghanistan.

With the surface likely to become increasingly helpful to spinners, Taijul could have a significant role t