Mahmudul Hasan Joy Shines in Bangladesh Test Squad Comeback

Mahmudul Hasan Joy has made a notable return to the Bangladesh Test cricket squad for the upcoming two-match series against Ireland. After a challenging phase with the bat in 2024, Joy bounced back with impressive scores in the new National Cricket League season, securing his place in the national team once again. This series, scheduled in Sylhet and Dhaka, marks an important chapter in his cricketing journey and Bangladesh’s ongoing Test campaign.

Who is Mahmudul Hasan

Mahmudul Hasan Joy is a professional Bangladeshi cricketer born on November 13, 2000. He is known primarily as a technically sound top-order right-handed batter with a solid temperament and classical stroke play. Joy made his List A debut in March 2019 for Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishtan and has since risen through the ranks with notable performances in domestic cricket, particularly in longer formats like first-class cricket.

He was a standout player in Bangladesh’s Under-19 cricket team, especially during the 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup where he scored a crucial century in the semifinal against New Zealand, contributing significantly to Bangladesh's historic win in the tournament. His performances earned him fast-tracked entry into senior domestic and international cricket.

Internationally, Mahmudul Hasan Joy made his Test debut for Bangladesh in December 2021 against Pakistan. He scored his maiden Test century in April 2022 against South Africa, becoming the first Bangladeshi batter to score a Test century in South Africa. He has also played in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), adapting his game to different formats. Domestically, he has represented teams including Chattogram Division and Gazi Group Chattogram.

Promising Comeback after Form Dip

Joy initially lost his spot due to a low batting average of 14.92 in seven Tests during early 2024. However, his recent performances, including scores of 127 and 51 for Chattogram Division in the National Cricket League, demonstrated resilience and skill, earning him a recall. Fans and cricket experts see Joy as a key player who can stabilize Bangladesh’s top order with his confident batting style.

Historic Achievements and Career Highlights

Mahmudul Hasan Joy made headlines in 2022 when he became the first Bangladeshi batter to score a Test century in South Africa — a breakthrough moment for Bangladesh cricket. Having played 18 Tests so far, Joy continues to be seen as a rising star with immense potential to strengthen Bangladesh’s batting line-up in the Test format.

Bangladesh Team and Captaincy Updates for Ireland Series

The Bangladesh squad for the Ireland Tests includes four fast bowlers and three spinners, reflecting a balanced team. Najmul Hossain Shanto resumes captaincy after reinstatement by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, leading the team in crucial matches. Senior player Mushfiqur Rahim is also in form, aiming to surpass 100 Test matches — a historic personal milestone.

Mahmudul Hasan Joy scores his 2nd Test century! 🎉A classy and composed innings anchoring Bangladesh in Sylhet. 🇧🇩🏏

Day 2 - Session 3: 1st Test | Dutch-Bangla Bank Bangladesh 🆚 Ireland Test Series 2025

11-15 Nov 2025 | 9:30 AM | Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, Sylhet… pic.twitter.com/qkLI6gLhID

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) November 12, 2025

Match Schedule and Expectations

The Test matches against Ireland will take place from November 11 to 15 in Sylhet and November 19 to 23 in Dhaka. Although these matches are outside the World Test Championship cycle, they offer Bangladesh valuable practice and opportunities to build momentum.