Jaker Ali, the latest inclusion in Bangladesh’s Test squad for the upcoming India series, has earned his first call-up in the longest format of the game. Although previously selected for the ODI and T20 formats, this marks his debut in the Test squad. National team selector Hannan Sarkar provided insights into the reasoning behind Jaker’s selection.

Hannan SarkarJaker Ali’s standout performance came during Bangladesh A's tour of Pakistan, where he played a brilliant knock of 172 runs against Pakistan Shaheens. This impressive innings paved his way into the national Test team. Jaker has also been successful in domestic cricket, adding to his credentials. The selectors, including Sarkar, had been considering bolstering the middle order with an extra batter for the India tour, which factored into Jaker's selection.

Speaking at a press conference, Hannan Sarkar explained, "Shahadat Hossain Dipu was always part of our plans in the later stages of Test matches. However, when Dipu played, key players like Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim were unavailable. Recent performances are crucial, and Dipu hasn’t been in form lately, though he’s still a key future player for us."

He added, "Jaker has been effective in longer formats. He might not have broken into the team earlier, but his recent 172 in Pakistan was a spectacular innings. Considering all factors, we decided to push Jaker ahead for this series."

The first match of the two-Test series between Bangladesh and India is set to take place in Chennai on September 19.