Naim returns after four years as Mahfijul earns maiden Test call-up

Bangladesh have turned to domestic form and fresh opening options ahead of their challenging Test tour of South Africa, recalling Mohammad Naim Sheikh after four years and handing young batter Mahfijul Islam Robin his maiden national team call-up.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board announced a 16-member squad on Monday for the two-Test series, which begins in Johannesburg on November 15. The selection comes after opener Shadman Islam suffered an ankle injury during the second Test against West Indies, ruling him out of the South Africa assignment.

Naim last played a Test against New Zealand in 2022, which was also his only appearance in the format. His recent performances in the National Cricket League, however, have strengthened his case for a return. He has scored 612 runs in seven innings, including three centuries.

Mahfijul has been even more prolific in the domestic competition. The 22-year-old has accumulated 672 runs in 10 innings at an average of 74.67, with three centuries, to emerge as the tournament's leading run-scorer.

His maiden call-up is a significant step in his career, particularly as Bangladesh look to strengthen their options at the top of the order before travelling to a country known for challenging batting conditions.

Chief selector Habibul Bashar said the selectors wanted a right-handed opening option and believed Mahfijul deserved an opportunity after his first-class performances. Mahmudul Hasan Joy had also been considered but was ruled out due to medical reasons.

Bangladesh will play the second Test in Centurion from November 23 to 27. The tour offers Naim an opportunity to revive his international career and Mahfijul a chance to make his first impression at the highest level.