Bangladesh Reveals Squad for Asia Cup: Tanzid Tamim and Shamim Patowary Included
BCB announces Asia Cup squad with debutant Tanzid Tamim and emerging player Shamim Patowary. Mahedi Hasan returns. Inclusion of T20I player Shamim in ODI team is noteworthy.
Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has unveiled the 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, including some notable newcomers and returning players. Uncapped opener Tanzid Tamim and emerging batter Shamim Patowary are among the inclusions. Notably, Shamim represents Bangladesh in T20Is and is receiving his maiden call-up to the ODI squad. Also making a comeback is Mahedi Hasan, who last played against New Zealand in 2021.
Key Squad Inclusions:
- Tanzid Tamim: The young opener’s selection follows his strong performance in the Emerging Asia Cup, where he scored three half-centuries. His inclusion is vital due to the vacancy left by Tamim Iqbal, who is recovering from a back injury.
- Shamim Patowary: Having impressed in the T20 format, Shamim has earned his place in the ODI squad. Despite a performance dip post the 2021 T20 World Cup, he showcased improvement in recent series.
- Mahedi Hasan: Mahedi makes a return to the squad, having last played in 2021. His all-round abilities provide a valuable asset for the team.
Squad Composition and Standbys:
The squad comprises of notable players like Shakib Al Hasan (captain), Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim, and more. Standbys include Taijul Islam, Saif Hasan, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
Chief Selector’s Insights:
BCB chief selector Minhajul Abedin expressed confidence in the new inclusions. He highlighted Tanzid’s progress in the High Performance Unit and Emerging Cup, stating that he is expected to contribute to the team. Shamim’s development post the 2021 T20 World Cup was also noted.
Regarding Nasum Ahmed’s selection, Abedin explained that the choice between him and Taijul Islam boiled down to pitch conditions. Nasum’s defensive spin was deemed more suitable for flat wickets expected in Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
Experienced Campaigner Mahmudullah’s Exclusion:
Notably, experienced player Mahmudullah was left out of the final squad. Abedin clarified that this decision was aligned with the team management’s strategy for the future, which involved a different playing approach. He emphasized that this exclusion doesn’t necessarily rule out Mahmudullah’s chances in the forthcoming World Cup squad.
Abedin clarified that the current squad was tailored for the Asia Cup, and decisions regarding the World Cup squad are yet to be made. The head coach’s plan and team management’s vision influenced the decision-making process for this particular selection.
The Asia Cup squad is being led by newly appointed ODI captain, Shakib Al Hasan. The tournament will provide insights into Bangladesh’s evolving lineup and strategies as they prepare for the larger stage.
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