Soumya Sarkar returns after five years to Bangladesh’s Test team; first Test to kick off on August 13 at Darwin

Soumya Sarkar returns to Bangladesh’s Test team after five years, last playing in February 2021.

The first Test against Australia starts on August 13, 2026, in Darwin.

Three regular players miss the first Test due to injury: Litton Das, Nahid Rana (side strain), and Shoriful Islam (hamstring).

Nahid Rana, Bangladesh's fastest pacer, requires six to eight weeks recovery from a side strain.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto noted Australia fielded their best squad, which he sees as a compliment.