Bangladesh Faces South Africa in Crucial Test Series Amid Political Unrest

The absence of former captain Shakib Al Hasan due to security concerns looms over Bangladesh's first cricket series since a major political upheaval.

Bangladesh's captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has opted to bat first against South Africa in the opening test match in Mirpur.
The series marks Bangladesh's return to international cricket following a student-led revolution that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August.
Shakib Al Hasan, a former lawmaker and key player, is absent due to security threats linked to his political ties, impacting Bangladesh's team composition.
South Africa, led by stand-in captain Aiden Markram, aims to break a decade-long winless streak in the subcontinent, focusing on tackling Bangladesh's spin-friendly conditions.
Bangladesh's coaching staff sees changes with Phil Simmons stepping in temporarily after Chandika Hathurusingha's suspension for alleged misconduct.