Bangladesh has undergone a significant overhaul in their squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, especially when compared to their roster for the Asia Cup 2023. They have announced a fresh 15-member squad for the initial two matches of the series.
One of the notable inclusions in the squad is the experienced batsman Mahmudullah, who was not part of the Asia Cup squad. Similarly, the former captain Tamim Iqbal, who missed the Asia Cup due to a back injury, is making a return to the team.
In a strategic move, Bangladesh has decided to rest key players like Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Taskin Hasan Mahmud, and Shoriful Islam for this series. Consequently, Litton Das has been appointed as the skipper in the absence of Shakib. Additionally, Mohammad Naim, Shamim Hossain Patowary, and Afif Hossain Dhrubo, who didn't perform up to expectations in the Asia Cup, have been excluded from the squad.
In a bid to enhance the team's depth, wicketkeeper-batter Nurul Hasan Sohan and left-hander Soumya Sarkar have been recalled to the 50-over team. The squad also features some promising uncapped players, including young batsman Zakir Hasan, leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, and fast bowler Syed Khaled Ahmed.
The decision to rest key players is primarily driven by the upcoming World Cup in India, which is a lengthy tournament where ensuring the physical and mental well-being of the players is paramount. The series against New Zealand serves as an opportunity to assess alternative options ahead of this significant event, explained Minhajul Abedin, the chairman of the national selection panel.
The squad exhibits a blend of experience and youthful talent, with only Zakir, Khaled, and Rishad yet to make their ODI debuts. Zakir came close to representing Bangladesh against Ireland in March but was sidelined due to an unfortunate injury. Khaled has shown promise in his List A career, while Rishad brings a unique dimension to the team's bowling attack, noted Minhajul Abedin.
The first two ODIs are slated to be held on September 21 and 23 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
Here is the squad:Â
- Litton Kumer Das (Captain)
- Tamim Iqbal Khan
- Soumya Sarkar
- Anamul Haque Bijoy
- Tawhid Hridoy
- Mahmudullah Riyad
- Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan
- Shak Mahedi Hasan
- Nasum Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib
- Tanzid Hasan Tamim
- Zakir Hasan
- Rishad Hossain
- Syed Khaled Ahmed
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