Najmul hints Bangladesh will play four bowlers in Johannesburg Test to fit in Hridoy

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain has indicated his side will go into the first Test against South Africa with four bowlers, a move that would make room for Towhid Hridoy and two specialist openers, according to Cricbuzz. The match starts on Sunday at the Wanderers in Johannesburg and is the first of two Tests.

Fitting in the in-form batter

Najmul made the comments on Saturday, 14 November, Cricbuzz reports.

Hridoy hit an unbeaten 242 against West Indies in Sylhet, which has prompted debate over Bangladesh's batting line-up. Shadman Islam is out with an ankle injury, so Mohammad Naim and uncapped Mahfijul were added to open alongside Tanzid Hasan Tamim.

Cricbuzz notes that Najmul has opened in Tests before, including in his most recent innings, and could move to the top of the order himself. He declined to name his openers, saying: "we know who to play but let's keep it to us."

Spin and part-time options

Practice sessions suggest Taijul Islam, who has struggled recently, is likely to be left out, according to Cricbuzz. Mominul Haque has been working on his bowling at Najmul's request and was seen bowling long spells in the nets, so he could be used as a part-timer.

Najmul said: "I think I can say that there must be three pacers. There should also be a spinner." He singled out Mehidy Hasan Miraz for his bowling in Australia.

South Africa's changes and the rankings

South Africa have named their XI, according to Sportstar and The Times of India. Zubayr Hamza comes in at No. 3 and Dane Paterson returns to the pace attack, with David Bedingham and Gerald Coetzee left out.

Captain Temba Bavuma said Hamza was "a lot more aggressive" and looks to take the game on. The Times of India reports that Simon Harmer keeps the specialist spinner's place, with Keshav Maharaj missing out.

South Africa are first in the ICC Men's Test rankings with a rating of 124, and Bangladesh eighth on 73, according to Cricket World. Sportstar, however, says South Africa are second in the World Test Championship standings and Bangladesh fifth. The second Test is at Centurion from 23 November.

Would you back Hridoy in the XI, or stick with four bowlers?