Bangladesh will begin their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 journey with a vital opener against India at the Dubai International Stadium on Thursday. As the Bangla Tigers pursue their first ICC title, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has been optimistic about his side’s capability to compete against any team, especially emphasizing the power of their pace attack.
Najmul Hossain Shanto conceded that Bangladesh has traditionally had a problem with the fast-bowling but thinks the current team has considerable upgrades. “I think we have always struggled with our seam attack, but over the last couple of years, we have nurtured some good quality fast bowlers,” said Shanto.
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The captain also singled out for special mention young seamer Nahid Rana and veteran pacer Taskin Ahmed, both of whom have been in scintillating form. “Now we have Nahid Rana, Taskin (Ahmed), and the manner in which they are bowling, I think it benefits us a lot,” he said. “As a captain, we enjoy seeing them bowling quickly.”
Nahid Rana, aged only 22, has been a big influence since establishing himself in the national team, and Shanto feels his dynamism has been a key factor in boosting the entire team. “He has bowled exceptionally well in the past few months, and his pace has been top-notch,” Najmul Hossain Shanto explained. “When we witness him charging in and firing quick spells, it inspires the whole bowling unit. It gives us the belief that we can apply pressure on any opposition.”
Bangladesh has been put in Group A, with hosts Pakistan, favourites India, and a formidable New Zealand team. With only two teams qualifying from each group, each match will be vital.
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Though Najmul Hossain Shanto is in for a challenge with the competition, he has faith in Bangladesh’s prospects. “We strongly feel that we can beat any team in this tournament,” he said. “All teams here have the potential to win the title, but for us, it’s all about playing our strengths and carrying out our plans. If we do that in the right manner, we can overcome any situation.”
With Bangladesh set to face India in their opening match, everyone’s attention will be focused on their pace attack and if it can meet the captain’s expectations within the high-stakes tournament.
