The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has unveiled a 15-member squad for the three-match T20I series against West Indies, commencing on December 15. Litton Das has been entrusted with the captaincy, stepping into a pivotal leadership role as Bangladesh navigates a transitional phase in the absence of their seasoned campaigners, Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah, who recently announced their retirements.
Focus on new faces and recalled players
The squad reflects Bangladesh’s intention to rebuild and experiment with fresh combinations, as evident from the recall of Soumya Sarkar, Afif Hossain, Shamim Hossain Patwari, Nasum Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, and Ripon Mondol. These players bring a mix of experience and youthful energy, providing the team management with an opportunity to test a broader pool of talent in the shortest format.
Najmul Hossain Shanto misses out
Former T20I skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto has been sidelined due to a groin injury that ruled him out of the Test and ODI legs of the tour. While his absence may come as a setback, his lackluster performances in T20Is could further complicate his return to the shortest format. The leadership dynamics may also shift permanently, as Litton takes the reins during this series.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Jayden Seales sizzles in West Indies’ series-clinching win over Bangladesh in 2nd ODI
Big names left out
Additionally, key players like Towhid Hridoy, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, and Rakibul Hasan have been excluded from the squad. Mustafizur’s omission is particularly notable, given his track record as a game-changer in T20 cricket. The selectors’ decision to leave out these established names underscores their commitment to exploring new talent and building a dynamic squad for the future.
Bangladesh Squad for West Indies T20Is
- Captain: Litton Kumar Das
- Players: Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali Anik, Shamim Hossain Patwari, Sheikh Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Hasan Mahmud, Ripon Mondol