Persistent rain disrupted preparations for both teams at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, with Bangladesh managing limited outdoor training sessions between showers. Pakistan, meanwhile, were forced to continue much of their preparation indoors.
Bangladesh could make changes to their playing XI following Shadman Islam’s injury.
Young opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim is in line for a possible Test debut, while Zakir Hasan, who replaced the injured Shadman in the squad, also spent significant time batting in the nets under senior assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin.
There is also a possibility of changes in the pace attack depending on workload management and conditions. Shoriful Islam could replace Taskin Ahmed, while Ebadot Hossain’s place may also come under consideration after the opening Test in Dhaka.
Weather is expected to play a major role in the Sylhet Test, with forecasts predicting rain throughout the five-day match. Heavy showers and thunderstorms are likely during the opening two days.
Despite the challenging forecast, Mushfiqur believes a result is still possible due to Sylhet’s improved drainage system.
“We are playing during the monsoon season, so rain is always a possibility. Fortunately, we still got a result in Mirpur despite interruptions,” Mushfiqur said during the pre-match press conference.
“The drainage system here is world-class as well. Even after overnight rain during recent domestic matches in Sylhet, play started on time. We expect stop-start cricket, but if the weather improves, a result is definitely possible.”
The experienced batter also said Bangladesh would aim to maintain the momentum gained from their historic win in the first Test.
“Pakistan are struggling across formats, but it’s not just because they are playing badly. We have consistently played better cricket against them. Our goal will be to continue that and try to bring the result in our favour again,” he added.
Pakistan are expected to be boosted by the return of Babar Azam, who missed the first Test due to injury. Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas, who recently featured in county cricket, could also play a key role in the pace-friendly Sylhet conditions.
However, Mushfiqur insisted Bangladesh know how to challenge the former Pakistan captain.
“When we beat Pakistan in their own country previously, Babar played in both Tests. We know where to attack him,” Mushfiqur said.
