When Bangladesh Cricket Board confirmed the 2025-26 home series against Ireland, few expected the opening Test to become a masterclass in resilience — or that it would set the stage for one of the most emotional milestones in Bangladeshi cricket history. The first match, played from November 11-15, 2025 at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, ended not just in victory, but in annihilation: Bangladesh crushed Ireland by an innings and 47 runs after posting a colossal 587/8 declared. It wasn’t just a win — it was a statement.
A Statement in Sylhet
Ireland won the toss and chose to bat, hoping to exploit early morning moisture. They made a decent start, but collapsed under the weight of Bangladesh’s disciplined seam attack. Paul Stirling’s 60 was the only meaningful contribution as Ireland were bowled out for 286 in 92.2 overs. The reply was brutal. Mahmudul Hasan Joy — a 24-year-old opener with a quiet demeanor and a ferocious cover drive — delivered his maiden Test century, then kept going. His 171 off 286 balls wasn’t just his career-best; it was the first 150+ score by a Bangladeshi batter in a home Test since 2021. He was supported by a gritty 98 from Litton Das, who became only the third Bangladeshi to cross 3,000 Test runs. The innings lasted 141 overs, and when Bangladesh declared, the crowd didn’t just cheer — they roared. Ireland’s second innings wasn’t much better. Andy McBrine’s gritty 52 kept hopes alive for a while, but the tail folded quickly. By day four, the match was over. Debutants Hasan Murad (Bangladesh) and Cade Carmichael and Jordan Neill (Ireland) entered the fray, but the scoreboard told the real story. Bangladesh had won their 10th Test against Ireland in 11 attempts — and this one felt different. It was clinical. It was complete.The Dhaka Milestone
The second Test, beginning November 19, 2025 at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, Dhaka, isn’t just about cricket — it’s about legacy. Mushfiqur Rahim, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter who’s been the backbone of Bangladesh cricket since 2005, will become the first player from his country to appear in 100 Test matches. That’s 100 Tests across 20 years — through losses, rebuilds, and moments of glory. He’s played under six captains, survived three coaching changes, and carried the hopes of a nation that once doubted its place in Test cricket. Ireland’s side has changed too. Stephen Doheny and Gavin Hoey, both 22, made their Test debuts in this match, replacing veterans who retired after the 2023 tour. Their challenge? To avoid the 155-run deficit Ireland faced in their second innings that year, when Lorcan Tucker and Andy McBrine stitched together a 111-run partnership to delay the inevitable. This time, the pressure is heavier. Bangladesh, flush with confidence after Sylhet, won the toss and chose to bat again — a sign they’re not just playing to win, but to dominate.Why the ODI Omission Matters
Originally, the series was slated to include three ODIs. But Cricket Ireland requested a reduction — not because of scheduling, but because of priorities. With the 2026 T20 World Cup looming, Ireland needed to focus on shorter formats. The decision to drop ODIs entirely was quietly controversial. For Bangladesh, it meant fewer chances to test their middle order against quality pace. For Ireland, it was a strategic retreat: two Tests to build resilience, three T20Is to fine-tune their death bowling. It’s a sign of how far Ireland has come — and how far they still have to go.
The T20I Roadmap
After the Tests, the series shifts to lightning-fast T20Is. The first two, on November 27 and 29, will be played at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram — a ground known for high-scoring games and electric crowds. The final match on December 2 returns to Dhaka, with a 2:00 PM local start — a rare afternoon game in a country where evening cricket is the norm. That timing? Likely a nod to broadcast partners in Europe, where the match will air live during breakfast hours. Ireland’s T20I record against Bangladesh is poor: five losses in eight meetings. But with players like Curtis Campher and George Dockrell in form, they’re not out of the fight.History in the Numbers
Bangladesh leads the head-to-head in every format: 1-0 in Tests, 11-2 in ODIs, 5-2 in T20Is. But numbers don’t capture the emotional weight of this tour. In 2023, Ireland’s only Test in Bangladesh ended in defeat — but Lorcan Tucker’s 72 in the second innings gave them a sliver of pride. This time, the Irish team carries no such illusions. They know they’re up against a side that’s no longer content to be the underdog. They’re now the standard-bearers of Asian cricket.
What’s Next?
The next 18 months will be critical for both teams. Bangladesh prepares for the 2027 World Cup, with their Test squad now showing rare depth. Ireland, meanwhile, will look at this series as a benchmark. Can they compete with top-eight nations? The answer won’t come from stats — it’ll come from how many of their young players stand tall under pressure.Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Ireland drop the ODIs from the Bangladesh tour?
Cricket Ireland prioritized Test experience and T20I preparation ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. ODIs require longer preparation and are less aligned with their current development goals. The decision was made in consultation with the Bangladesh Cricket Board to streamline the tour and focus on formats where Ireland can gain maximum exposure against top-tier opposition.
Who is Mahmudul Hasan Joy, and why is his performance significant?
Mahmudul Hasan Joy is a 24-year-old opening batter who scored his maiden Test century — and first 150+ score — in the first Test against Ireland, finishing with 171. His innings was the cornerstone of Bangladesh’s 587/8 declared. He’s the first Bangladeshi to score a Test 150+ since 2021, and his calm approach under pressure signals a new generation of top-order stability for the team.
What makes Mushfiqur Rahim’s 100th Test special?
Mushfiqur Rahim is the first Bangladeshi cricketer to play 100 Test matches, joining an elite global group of only 35 players. He’s played since 2005, survived the team’s lowest points, and captained the side during its rise. His consistency as a wicketkeeper-batter — with over 6,000 Test runs — has defined Bangladesh’s identity in the longest format. This milestone isn’t just personal; it’s national.
Why is the final T20I scheduled for a 2:00 PM start in Dhaka?
The 2:00 PM local start (9:00 AM IST) was chosen to accommodate European broadcasters, particularly in the UK and Ireland, where the match will air during breakfast hours. This is a strategic move to maximize global viewership and commercial value, despite the fact that most Bangladeshi fans prefer evening matches. It reflects the growing international profile of Bangladesh cricket.
How does Ireland’s current team compare to their 2023 side?
The 2025 Ireland squad is younger and less experienced in Test cricket. Only three players from the 2023 Dhaka Test remain — including Andy McBrine. Debutants like Stephen Doheny and Gavin Hoey are stepping into high-pressure roles, while key bowlers like Josh Little and Mark Adair are now more seasoned. The team lacks the veteran leadership of Paul Stirling and Harry Tector, who’ve since stepped back from Tests — making this series a true transition point.
What’s the significance of the Sylhet and Chattogram venues?
Sylhet’s pitch favors seam and swing, making it ideal for early Test matches, while Chattogram’s flat, fast outfield is perfect for T20Is — it’s one of the highest-scoring grounds in Bangladesh. Choosing these venues shows the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s intent to test teams across different conditions. It also boosts regional cricket, bringing international matches to cities beyond Dhaka and Chittagong, which have historically dominated the schedule.