(Image Source: PTI)
[Saba Sports News] Experienced players Tamim Iqbal and Mahmudullah have been included in the 15-member Bangladesh squad for the first two ODIs of the upcoming three-match series against New Zealand.
Tamim, who last played in July against Afghanistan due to a back injury, is set to make his comeback. Mahmudullah, on the other hand, hasn’t featured in ODIs since the home series against England in March.
In the absence of regular captain Shakib Al Hasan, who is rested, Liton Das will lead the team against New Zealand. Several other key players, including Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, and Shoriful Islam, have also been rested with an eye on the World Cup in India. Najmul Hossain Shanto, recovering from a hamstring injury, was not considered for selection.
Chief selector Minhajul Abedin explained, “The decision to rest players was taken with the World Cup in mind, where maintaining the mental and physical fitness of the cricketers will be crucial. The New Zealand series provides an opportunity to assess other players ahead of this major event.”
In addition to experienced players, the squad features three uncapped players: Zakir Hasan, Syed Khaled Ahmed, and Rishad Hossain. Minhajul mentioned, “The squad blends experience and youth, with only Zakir, Khaled, and Rishad yet to feature in ODIs. Zakir was on the verge of playing against Ireland in March before an unfortunate injury, while Khaled has performed well in his List A career, and Rishad brings a different dimension to our bowling attack.”
Bangladesh will commence their training on September 19, with the ODIs scheduled for September 21, 23, and 26 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur.
Bangladesh squad: Liton Das (capt), Tamim Iqbal, Soumya Sarkar, Anamul Haque Bijoy, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Zakir Hasan, Rishad Hossain, and Syed Khaled Ahmed.