Pakistan Predicted Playing XI vs Bangladesh, 2nd Test 2026: Babar Azam Set for Return

Pakistan Predicted Playing XI vs Bangladesh: Test Redemption in Sylhet

Pakistan’s Test campaign in Bangladesh hit a rough patch in the first match, as the visitors suffered a decisive defeat at the hands of a determined home side. Now, with the series on the brink, the Men in Green prepare for the must-win 2nd Test at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on May 16, starting at 9 PM IST.

After a batting collapse that exposed vulnerabilities against Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling, especially in spin-friendly conditions, Pakistan faces pressure to regroup and reclaim pride. A win would keep the series alive. A loss would hand Bangladesh a historic 2-0 clean sweep — a scenario Pakistan is desperate to avoid.

Babar Azam’s Return: A Boost for Batting Fragility

The biggest development ahead of the Sylhet Test is the confirmed return of Babar Azam. According to reports from Geo News, the former skipper has recovered from his knee injury and is expected to rejoin the playing XI.

Babar is likely to bat at number four — a position where he has historically delivered in Test cricket. His return comes at a critical time, following underwhelming performances from senior batters like Shan Masood (11 runs in two innings), Saud Shakeel (15 runs), and Imam-ul-Haq, who remains in the lineup despite a low score in Dhaka.

With Babar’s inclusion, Saud Shakeel is expected to make way, a move that balances experience with form and adds much-needed stability to the middle order.

Top Order Continuity with Young Promise

The opening pair of Azan Awais and Imam-ul-Haq is set to continue. Awais, the young talent, impressed with a gritty century in the first innings of the previous Test — a rare bright spot in an otherwise lackluster batting display.

Imam, despite his inconsistent run tally, retains his spot due to his experience and leadership in the top order. At number three, Abdullah Fazal — another rising star — is expected to stay in the XI after scoring 126 runs across two innings, showcasing composure beyond his years.

Middle Order and All-Round Balance

Captain Shan Masood will continue at number five, under pressure to deliver with the bat after a poor outing. His leadership is not in question, but his personal form certainly is.

Mohammad Rizwan remains a reliable figure, capable of anchoring the innings. His 59 off 79 balls in the first innings of the Dhaka Test provided crucial resistance. He may bat at six, with Salman Ali Agha offering a more aggressive option in the middle order — vital if Pakistan faces spin-dominated spells from Bangladesh’s tweakers.

One of the key changes could come in the all-rounder department. Sajid Khan is tipped to replace Noman Ali, bringing in extra batting depth along with his crafty off-spin. If the Sylhet pitch offers turn from day one, Sajid’s dual ability could prove invaluable.

Pace Attack Remains Intact

The pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Abbas is expected to remain unchanged. Shaheen led the charge with 3/56 and 2/31 in the two innings, maintaining tight lines and generating consistent pressure.

Hasan Ali showed resilience, picking up four wickets (1 and 3), while Abbas was the standout performer with a five-wicket haul in the first innings, dismantling Bangladesh’s middle order.

However, the final decision may hinge on the pitch report. Should Sylhet favor spin, Pakistan could opt for two pacers and two spinners, possibly retaining Noman Ali and dropping Abbas to balance the attack.

Predicted Pakistan Playing XI vs Bangladesh, 2nd Test 2026

• Azan Awais
• Imam-ul-Haq
• Abdullah Fazal
• Babar Azam
• Shan Masood (c)
• Mohammad Rizwan
• Salman Ali Agha
• Sajid Khan
• Shaheen Afridi
• Hasan Ali
• Mohammad Abbas

While the core of the team remains, the inclusion of Babar Azam and the potential shift to Sajid Khan reflect Pakistan’s attempt to fine-tune their approach — blending experience, form, and adaptability on a challenging subcontinental pitch.

For Pakistan, the Sylhet Test is more than just a game — it’s a chance to salvage pride, restore confidence, and prove their resilience in Asian conditions.