Nazmul Hossain Shanto has been appointed as captain of Bangladesh squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, as announced on Sunday. The team, however, will be without the services of former skipper and iconic all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan.
The exclusion of the 37-year-old veteran comes in the wake of his suspension from bowling in competitions governed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). This decision was based on the results of an independent reassessment conducted at the Sri Ramachandra Centre for Sports Science in Chennai, India, last month. While Shakib remains eligible to participate solely as a batter, the selectors have chosen to omit him entirely from the squad, signaling a transitional phase for the team.
Another notable absence is Tamim Iqbal, who recently retired from international cricket. Tamim was instrumental in Bangladesh’s run to the semi-finals in the previous edition of the tournament and leaves behind a significant void in the batting lineup. Despite these high-profile absences, experienced campaigners like wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim and all-rounder Mahmudullah have retained their places, providing the team with much-needed stability.
Promising New Talent
The squad features the debut inclusion of Parvez Hossai Emon in the ODI format. Known for his performances in T20Is, Emon’s entry signals the team’s focus on nurturing young talent. Additionally, emerging pacer Nahid Rana, who recently debuted against the West Indies, has been included to strengthen the bowling attack. The squad also sees the presence of reliable performers such as Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, and Mustafizur Rahman, ensuring a blend of youth and experience.
Squad Details
Bangladesh’s Champions Trophy Squad: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossai Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.
Group Stage Fixtures
• 20 February: Bangladesh vs India, Dubai
• 24 February: Bangladesh vs New Zealand, Rawalpindi
• 27 February: Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi
With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, Bangladesh enters the Champions Trophy aiming to make a mark despite the absence of key players like Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal.