- June 17, 2025
Here we go again, just when Bangladesh supporters were hoping for a nice, stable start to the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, a fever has put everything at risk. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, the spin-bowling allrounder who is quietly establishing himself as one of Bangladesh’s most reliable Test players, is doubtful for the Galle Test starting June 17, as he is virus-free but not in game-ready condition, which raises several questions about Bangladesh’s game plan. So, what’s at stake if Miraz does not make the XI? Let’s unpack this.
Why Miraz Matters More Than You Think
Mehidy is not just a name on the team sheet- he is the critical link in the middle order and the bowling attack, especially in spin-friendly conditions such as Galle. Mehidy has more than 150 Test wickets and solid lower-order runs. In conditions found in Sri Lanka, where the pitch deteriorates quicker than our weekend plans, Miraz’s control, discipline, and wicket-taking proficiency become even more important.
Remove Mehidy from the XI, you have removed Bangladesh’s most experienced spinner. Sure, Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan can do the job, but Miraz offers a unique combination of economy-building pressure and good off-spin that is difficult to recreate on most subcontinent wickets. And when you combine the runs with his batting, you realise he is a genuine two-in-one player who provides balance and flexibility. Shanto and coach Phil Simmons then face difficult decisions: play a second batter at 7 or entrench on a less sure spinner?
A Balanced Squad, But Can It Absorb a Blow?
On paper, Bangladesh’s Test squad for this tour is wonderfully balanced, with a combination of youth and experience, and for once, the top order doesn’t look like a patchwork quilt—it doesn’t look too bad! Shanto himself is in good form, and with him, Najmul, Litton Das, and Mominul Haque, there is a bit of stability (that is supposed to sound ironic). But that middle-order cushion and fifth bowler that Miraz provides? That is difficult to replace.
Should Miraz be ruled out, it could likely mean that they replace him with an extra batter, perhaps Shahadat Hossain Dipu or Nurul Hasan, if they desire keeping options. Yet, in Galle, the pitch is friendly for batters for the first couple of days, and in walks the spin, going light on bowling may have additional risks. Bangladesh could consider going with a third spinner, but with limited options for backup spinners, that’s easier said than done.
Starting WTC on the Right Foot—or Left Out?
This Test is not simply down to one player – it’s about gaining the right momentum. The 2025–27 WTC cycle is starting, and Bangladesh would love to take an early lead. Four overseas wins in the last cycle were an improvement, but consistency is still lacking. Shanto and Simmons’ leadership and experience may be able to stabilize the ship, but the first session of this Galle Test might determine how the tone of the tour is set.
If Miraz plays, Bangladesh gets their best hand. If he doesn’t, we’re looking at some makeshift balancing – and that’s always a gamble in Galle.
At the moment, Miraz’s status is a game-time decision. He’s recovering, yes – but whether he’s match-fit is another question. If he plays, it would be huge. If not, it’s up to the backups. Either way, this Test is going to be a trial by spin, strategy, and squad depth.
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