Dhaka – Bangladesh captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto has issued a bold statement ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, expressing his team’s belief in their ability to cause major upsets and claim their first-ever ICC title. Despite recent struggles in ODI cricket, the 26-year-old skipper is optimistic about his squad’s potential to make a significant impact at the prestigious eight-team tournament, set to be hosted in Pakistan and the UAE from February 19.
A New Chapter for Bangladesh Cricket
Bangladesh endured a challenging ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign in India, winning only two matches. Since then, their ODI form has been inconsistent, with just one bilateral series victory—a 2-1 win over Sri Lanka at home in March 2023. However, Shanto remains undeterred, emphasizing the growing belief within the team.
“We are going to the Champions Trophy to become champions,” Shanto declared confidently. “All eight teams in this tournament have the potential to win. They are all quality sides. I believe in our team’s ability, and no one will feel unnecessary pressure. Everyone genuinely wants to win and believes in their capabilities. We don’t know what Allah has written in our fate, but we are working hard and giving our best. I believe we can achieve our goal.”
A Balanced Squad with Youth and Experience
While veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is not part of the 15-member squad, Shanto expressed confidence in the team’s balance, highlighting the mix of young talent and experienced players. He also praised the improvement in Bangladesh’s pace bowling and spin departments, which have historically been areas of concern.
“I am very happy and confident with the squad,” Shanto said. “Every player has the potential to win matches single-handedly. Not too long ago, we lacked quality pace bowlers, but now we have a strong pace attack. Similarly, we didn’t have wrist spinners before, but now we do. Overall, we have a well-balanced team. If everyone fulfills their roles properly, we can defeat any team at any time.”
Tough Group Stage Ahead
Bangladesh has been drawn into Group A alongside cricketing powerhouses India, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Their campaign begins with a high-stakes clash against India in Dubai on February 20. They will then travel to Rawalpindi for crucial matches against New Zealand on February 24 and hosts Pakistan on February 27.
Bangladesh Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.
Bangladesh’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
- February 20: Bangladesh vs India, Dubai
- February 24: Bangladesh vs New Zealand, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- February 27: Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
Conclusion
With a renewed sense of belief and a well-balanced squad, Bangladesh is determined to make their mark at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto’s confidence reflects the team’s ambition to overcome past challenges and compete against the world’s best. As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Bangladesh to see if they can turn their aspirations into reality and create history by lifting their first ICC trophy.
Stay tuned for more updates on Bangladesh’s journey in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and their quest for glory.
Khalid Javed is a distinguished journalist and the esteemed Editor of Daily Olympic, a prominent publication in Pakistan. With a career marked by dedication and excellence, Khalid has established himself as a well-known figure in the field of journalism, earning respect for his insightful reporting and editorial expertise. His work at Daily Olympic reflects his commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and impactful news, particularly in the realm of sports and beyond. Khalid’s contributions to the media landscape in Pakistan have not only informed the public but also inspired aspiring journalists. His passion for journalism and his ability to navigate complex stories with clarity and integrity have made him a trusted voice in the industry.