The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) recently revealed the highly anticipated T20I and ODI squads for the upcoming multi-format series against Sri Lanka. The series will commence with a three-match T20I leg from March 4, followed by an equally exciting three-match ODI leg starting from March 13. In a surprising turn of events, Shakib Al Hasan has been sidelined from the highly promising series.
Shakib al Hasan’s absence
The absence of Shakib from the white-ball series is due to a retina issue in his left eye. Shakib, a crucial player for Bangladesh, last represented the team in the ODI World Cup 2023. The decision to rest him for the series against Sri Lanka offers a chance for other players to step up and make their mark on the international stage.
Najmul Hossain Shanto takes the helm
The BCB had previously announced the appointment of Najmul Hossain Shanto as the captain of the Bangladesh team across all formats for a year. This series marks the beginning of Shanto’s leadership role in Shakib’s absence, and his ability to guide the team will be under close scrutiny ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year.
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Key inclusions: Mahmudullah returns
One of the significant highlights of the squad announcement is the return of Mahmudullah to the T20I setup after an extended absence. His experience will add value to the team. Additionally, Anamul Haque and Mohammad Naim have earned their spots in the T20I squad after impressive performances in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).
Notably, there are many players who have been picked in both T20I and ODI squads. However, the senior most member of the side Mushfiqur Rahim could only make it to the ODI team and didn’t find a place in the T20I setup.
Bangladesh’s squads for white-ball series against Sri Lanka
T20I Squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Liton Das, Anamul Haque, Mohammad Naim, Towhid Hridoy, Soumya Sarkar, Mahedi Hasan, Mahmudullah, Taijul Islam, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan, Aliss Al Islam.
ODI Squad (for 1st & 2nd ODIs): Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Anamul Haque, Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Liton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hassan, Taijul Islam, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman.
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