Bangladesh enters a new era in Test cricket as they begin their campaign in the 2027 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The two-match home series against Sri Lanka marks their first assignment in the new cycle, and the team has been boosted by the return of several senior players. With Najmul Hossain Shanto at the helm, hopes are high for a strong start as the Tigers look to build consistency in the longer format.
Najmul Hossain Shanto, who was officially appointed Bangladesh’s all-format captain in 2024, leads the side into this pivotal phase with confidence. He has already shown signs of growth as a leader and batsman, including a composed match-winning knock of 53* in the most recent Test series against Sri Lanka. As a captain, Shanto has been calm, calculated, and focused on long-term development, especially in a format where Bangladesh has traditionally struggled to find rhythm.
The squad for this series is strengthened by the return of experienced campaigners like Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Their presence is vital, not only for performance on the field but also for mentoring younger players as the team transitions. Shakib brings unmatched all-round prowess and tactical knowledge, while Mushfiqur remains one of Bangladesh’s most dependable Test batters. Mehidy, with his off-spin, is expected to play a key role on home pitches that usually assist spinners.
Notably absent, however, is Tamim Iqbal, who recently confirmed his retirement from Test cricket. Tamim’s experience and leadership at the top of the order will be missed, and the team will now look to younger players like Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, and Towhid Hridoy to step up and fill the void. The success of Bangladesh’s batting order may depend heavily on how quickly this new generation adapts to Test match demands.
Conditions in Sylhet, where the series begins, are expected to favor spin bowling. This plays into Bangladesh’s strength, with the spin trio of Shakib, Mehidy, and Taijul Islam forming a formidable attack. On the pace front, Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam will shoulder the new-ball responsibilities, offering variety and aggression in different phases of the game.
Sri Lanka, however, are no pushovers. They enter this series in good form, having performed consistently in limited-overs cricket and with a settled Test core. Bangladesh will need Shanto to be disciplined with the bat and sharp in the field to outplay a side that has historically matched up well against them.
This series is more than just the start of the WTC27 campaign—it’s a moment of transition, leadership development, and renewed ambition. Shanto’s captaincy, combined with the presence of big names and the rise of young talents, gives Bangladesh a well-balanced look. If they can seize early momentum, this could be the foundation for their most competitive WTC cycle yet.