MIRPUR, Bangladesh — The opening test of a two-match series between Bangladesh and South Africa commenced on Monday with Bangladesh’s captain Najmul Hossain Shanto winning the toss and opting to bat first.

This sporting event is set against the backdrop of significant political unrest in Bangladesh, where a recent student-led uprising led to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This political turmoil was marked by weeks of protests and violent clashes that resulted in over 600 fatalities, plunging the nation into a state of chaos.

Former captain Shakib Al Hasan was anticipated to participate in what would be his farewell test match against South Africa. However, due to his past affiliation with the Awami League government, he has been reportedly advised by the current authorities not to travel back to the country due to security concerns.

Shanto expressed regret that Shakib would not receive a home farewell, stating, “Of course, this was in our plan (to give Shakib a farewell). I think he is one of the best players, not only in Bangladesh but in the whole world. But it is very unfortunate that it wasn’t possible for whatever reasons. But I feel, also our team members feel, it remains pending for the future.”

Bangladesh made several changes to their lineup from the previous test against India, bringing Jaker Ali in for his debut, along with the return of opener Mahmudul Hasan and offspinner Nayeem Hasan. Consequently, opener Zakir Hasan and pacer Khaled Ahmed were left out, with Shakib also being unavailable.

On the opposing side, South Africa is led by Aiden Markram in the absence of Temba Bavuma, who is sidelined due to an injury. The South African team is determined to put an end to a decade-long winless streak in matches on the subcontinent, having not won any of their last 13 tests in this region.

Historically, South Africa has performed well against Bangladesh, having won 12 of the 14 test matches played between the two teams. Their last tour to Bangladesh in 2015 saw two test matches end in draws, primarily due to adverse weather conditions.

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**Line Ups:**

**Bangladesh:** Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Mehidy Hasan, Jaker Ali, Nayeem Hasan, Taijul Islam, Hasan Mahmud

**South Africa:** Aiden Markram (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Ryan Rickelton, Matthew Breetzke, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Piedt