Bangladesh vs. Pakistan, Best XI from 2015 Test Series
The series between Bangladesh and Pakistan was very much dominated by the batsmen, underscored by the fact that just one bowler averaged under 30.00 across the two Tests. A dull pitch in the first Test and poor bowling by Bangladesh in the second saw big scores being racked up. Players from both teams put in some impressive individual performances, though, and picking the Best XI wasn’t easy.
If there is anyone who you think has been wrongly overlooked, add your thoughts in the comments.
1. Tamim Iqbal
1 of 11
277 runs at an average of 69.25
Tamim Iqbal's double century in the second innings of the first Test was vital in helping Bangladesh secure a draw. Bangladesh's batsmen still have a long way to go in terms of consistency, and players like Iqbal will be vital in their growth. They need mature players who can lead the batting line-up and shepherd the inexperienced players when the pressure is on.
2. Mohammad Hafeez
2 of 11
232 runs at an average of 77.33 and six wickets at an average of 24.16
Mohammad Hafeez had an exceptional series. A double century, six wickets and the lowest of all the bowlers made him one of the most impressive players. After a steady World Cup and struggling in the limited overs series against Bangladesh it must have been a big relief for Hafeez to get some good performances under his belt.
3. Imrul Kayes
3 of 11
249 runs at an average of 62.25
Imrul Kayes was at the wrong end of that spectacular delivery from Yasir Shah, but he showed a lot of tenacity through this series. A half century and a century in the first Test helped Bangladesh draw the opening match. Although he struggled in the second Test, in the context of the series, he put in a solid performance.
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
4. Azhar Ali
4 of 11
334 runs at an average of 111.33
Azhar Ali topped the run-scoring charts with 334 runs at an average of 111.33. Two centuries and a double century made Ali an integral part of the Pakistan victory. While batting did come quite easily for most of the series, he is one of just three batsmen to manage a half century and a century in the series.
5. Younis Khan
5 of 11
220 runs at an average of 73.33
Younis Khan is a really enjoyable batsman to watch. Bouncing back in the second Test to score a century and help set Pakistan up for a big victory earns him a place in the best XI.
6. Misbah-Ul-Haq
6 of 11
150 runs at an average of 50.00
In the second innings of the second Test, Misbah-ul-Haq hit an uncharacteristically quick half-century, his second of the series. Although he did not manage a hundred, his captaincy was inspired, and rallying his troops after being so thoroughly beaten in the limited-overs matches was a great effort.
7. Shakib Al Hasan
7 of 11
203 runs at an average of 101.50 and two wickets at an average of 162.50
Shakib Al Hasan's exploits with the ball were distinctly under par, with two wickets at an average of 162.50 across the two Tests. He did, however, play a key role with the bat, scoring 203 runs across the two Tests. Those efforts included the critical unbeaten 76 in the first Test, which helped Bangladesh draw the first game.
8. Yasir Shah
8 of 11
10 wickets at an average of 34.00
Yasir Shah made everyone fall in love with leg spin again. He finished the series as joint-leading wicket-taker with 10 scalps, but it was the way in which he bowled that made him such a joy to watch. His variation and, more importantly, knowing how to use that variation brought back memories of Shane Warne in his heyday. We only hope that he carries on for a long while still to come.
9. Wahab Riaz
9 of 11
7 wickets at an average of 34.14
Since the World Cup, Wahab Riaz has discovered a newfound aggression and guile. Even on the flat tracks of the subcontinent, Riaz manages to do something special. With seven wickets at an average of 34.14 and an economy rate of 3.31, Riaz was one of the leading bowlers of the tour.
10. Mohammad Shahid
10 of 11
Five wickets at an average of 30.80
This was Mohammad Shahid's first Test series, and he did a pretty good job. With five wickets across two tests at an average of 30.80 and an impressive economy rate of 2.56, Shahid is one to watch in the future. For a fast bowler to perform well in unhelpful conditions, there must be something special about them.
11. Taijul Islam
11 of 11
10 wickets at an average of 39.80
Taijul Islam managed the only five-for of the series and took 10 wickets in total, including best figures of six for 163. Despite his wickets coming at a slightly high average of 39.80, he showed some real future promise. When his teammates were struggling, Islam managed to step up.
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
