Bangladesh’s Test openers have come under renewed scrutiny as their continued struggles in the absence of veteran opener Tamim Iqbal prompt changes ahead of the Chattogram Test. Chief Selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain Lipu has confirmed the inclusion of Anamul Haque Bijoy, who returns to the national Test squad after a lengthy absence, having last played in the format in 2022.

The latest shake-up follows the underwhelming performance by current openers Sadman Islam and Mahmudul Hasan Joy in the recently concluded Sylhet Test, where they failed to establish a solid foundation. With the series moving to Chattogram, selectors turned to domestic cricket’s most consistent performer in recent months.

Anamul Haque has been in phenomenal form in the ongoing Dhaka Premier League, representing Gazi Group Cricketers. He has scored 874 runs in 14 innings, averaging 79.45 with a strike rate of 97.43. His run tally includes four centuries and four half-centuries, reflecting the consistency that made his case for a recall undeniable.

Prior to this, in the National Cricket League (NCL), Bijoy was also among the standout performers. Over 13 innings, he scored 700 runs, the second-highest in the tournament, featuring one century and six fifties. In the NCL T20 competition, he added 392 runs in 12 innings, with one century and two fifties to his name. His dominance across all formats in domestic cricket significantly bolstered his claim for a return to international duties.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Chief Selector Gazi Ashraf clarified the reasoning behind the decision. He said, “I believe our openers have been given enough opportunities. If you observe the way they’ve been dismissed, it tells a story. Bijoy is undoubtedly in excellent form, and there was no issue with bringing him into the squad. Even though it has taken some time, he has earned this chance.”

Gazi Ashraf further noted that Anamul Haque had always been part of the selectors’ long-term plans. “Bijoy has always been within our process and our considerations,” he added. “We’ve followed a structured approach of reintroducing players through the ‘A’ team before bringing them back to the national side. Following that process, Bijoy was part of the ‘A’ team tour to Pakistan last year. His current form, combined with the failure of the openers in the first Test, created a natural opportunity for his return.”

This move underscores the selectors’ intention to prioritize performance and form over persistence with underperforming incumbents. It also signals a shift in approach, emphasizing results from domestic competitions as a valid route back into the national side. With the Test series finely poised, all eyes will now be on Anamul Haque to see whether his domestic form can translate into success on the international stage.

The Chattogram Test will offer him a fresh chance to reignite his red-ball career and solidify his place in the national setup, while Bangladesh’s selectors hope that a shake-up at the top of the order will bring renewed stability and performance.