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Habibul Bashar explains Robin's selection for South Africa Test series

Published : Monday, 9 November, 2026 at 12:43 PM

Observer Online Report

Collected Photo

Uncapped opener Mahfijul Islam Robin has earned his maiden call-up to the Bangladesh Test squad, while Naim Sheikh has been recalled for the upcoming tour of South Africa, chief selector Habibul Bashar Sumon announced.

The squad overhaul follows ankle injuries to regular openers Shadman Islam and Mahmudul Hasan Joy. Shadman sustained an injury during the ongoing Sylhet Test against the West Indies that will sideline him for over a month, while Joy was ruled out due to a medical setback on Sunday (November 8) afternoon.

Explaining Robin's inclusion, chief selector Habibul Bashar stated that the national team had been searching for a right-handed opening batsman and identified Robin following his recent performances with Bangladesh 'A' in South Africa.

"We have been looking for a right-handed opener for a long time, and Mahfijul looks ready," Bashar said. "We had to take this calculated step. Since he performed well for the 'A' team in South Africa, he has been included in the squad."

Addressing Naim Sheikh’s return to the red-ball setup, Bashar noted that Naim was selected based on recent domestic form, while acknowledging concerns regarding Soumya Sarkar's current output.

"We had brought in Soumya Sarkar as an opener, but we could not give him enough opportunities, and his current form is a matter of concern," Bashar explained. "With Shadman out and Joy unfortunately ruled out due to medical reasons, Naim Sheikh was selected because he has been in good touch."

-EM

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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury

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