Certain teams possess the ability to exceed expectations, and Bangladesh undoubtedly falls within this category in the realm of international cricket. With the impending arrival of the ODI World Cup, the anticipation for ‘The Tigers’ to showcase heroic performances at the grandest stage grows with each passing day.
Yet, Bangladesh’s track record in World Cup competitions has fallen short of their lofty aspirations. While they secured victories in two out of their first three matches in Australia last year, losses against Pakistan and India in their final two encounters resulted in a Super 12 exit in the T20 World Cup, trailing behind the Netherlands.
Their previous showing in the penultimate T20 World Cup was even less favorable, having suffered defeats in all five of their matches in the UAE. What strategies will they employ to alter this course? Their initial step, involved reinstating Shakib Al Hasan as the ODI captain. Shakib is set to lead Bangladesh in the 50-over format during the forthcoming Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup.
Bangladesh’s Probable Squad for ICC ODI World Cup 2023
Batters: Tamim Iqbal, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Mohammad Naim
On August 3, Tamim Iqbal relinquished his role as captain of the Bangladesh ODI squad. Following a recent back injury, Tamim Iqbal will be absent from the Bangladesh squad. Nevertheless, the expectation is that he will return to represent the nation at the World Cup. Given his stature, his presence is pivotal at the forefront of Bangladesh’s batting lineup.
Najmul Hossain Shanto, with a remarkable record of 429 runs at an average of 39 in 2023, has solidified his position at number 3. Towhid Hridoy, who made an exceptional debut in 2023 with 338 runs at an average of 48.28, will retain the No. 5 spot. In case Tamim remains unavailable, Mohammad Naim will serve as Bangladesh’s backup opener.
All-rounders: Shakib Al Hasan, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Shakib Al Hasan, the iconic figure of Bangladesh cricket, assumes the captaincy across all formats. Once again, he will lead his team at the World Cup. His extraordinary performance (606 runs at an average of 86.57, 11 wickets) during the 2019 World Cup in England remains unforgettable.
Shakib will be supported by the capable Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Afif Hossain, both of whom have exhibited solid performances on the international stage. In India, a country where spinners often excel, Mehidy and Afif, regular fixtures in Bangladesh cricket, will be as crucial as Shakib.
Wicket-keepers: Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das
Litton Das, who had an impressive 2022 with 577 runs in 13 ODIs at an average of 52.45, retains his significance in the top-order despite less impressive 2023 records (301 runs at an average of 30). His role in setting the foundation for others is crucial.
Mushfiqur Rahim, an experienced campaigner alongside Tamim and Shakib, will play a pivotal role as the wicket-keeper batsman in Bangladesh’s middle-order.
Bowlers: Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Mustafizur Rahman, Taijul Islam, Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam
Leading the Bangladesh bowling attack is Mustafizur Rahman, supported by Taskin Ahmed. The team’s fast bowling options are varied, with Ebadot Hossain, Shoriful Islam, and Hasan Mahmud likely to provide reinforcement.
Also Read: Pakistan’s Probable Squad for ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Can Babar and Afridi Lead Men in Green To Victory?
Bangladesh’s Predicted Playing 11 for ICC ODI World Cup 2023
- Tamim Iqbal
- Litton Das
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Shakib Al Hasan (c)
- Towhid Hridoy
- Mushfiqur Rahim (wk),
- Afif Hossain
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Taskin Ahmed
- Hasan Mahmud
- Mustafizur Rahman