Bangladesh’s cricket board announced on Sunday that Najmul Hossain Shanto will captain the national team in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, set to take place in Pakistan and Dubai next month. However, the 15-man squad will be without key players, including former star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and top-order batsman Liton Das.
Shakib’s absence is attributed to his ongoing issues with his bowling action, but the exclusion of Liton Das has raised eyebrows, as he is considered a reliable batsman in the top order. His omission has surprised fans and analysts alike.
Bangladesh, currently ranked ninth in the ICC ODI rankings, will compete in Group A alongside India, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Their tournament opener is scheduled for February 20 against India in Dubai.
The squad reflects a shift towards younger talent, with Shanto leading a lineup that includes experienced players such as Mushfiqur Rahim, Mohammad Mahmudullah Riyad, and Mustafizur Rahman, who are expected to provide much-needed experience to the team during the tournament.
Bangladesh Squad:
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain)
- Soumya Sarkar
- Tanzid Hasan
- Towhid Hridoy
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Mohammad Mahmudullah Riyad
- Jaker Ali
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Rishad Hossain
- Taskin Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Parvez Hossain Emon
- Nasum Ahmed
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib
- Nahid Rana
