Bangladesh enters the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a fresh set of challenges and expectations. With senior stalwarts like Tamim Iqbal, Mahmudullah Riyad, and Shakib Al Hasan retired, a new generation of cricketers must rise to the occasion. The Tigers have shown glimpses of their potential in past ICC events, notably reaching the quarter-finals of the 2015 World Cup and the semi-finals of the 2017 Champions Trophy. However, recent performances, including a disappointing series loss to West Indies, indicate that Bangladesh must refine their approach to be competitive in a challenging tournament.
As the squad shapes up, we analyze the likely Bangladesh playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025, evaluating the key players who will shoulder the nation’s hopes on the global stage.
1. Tanzid Hasan – Opener
A promising young left-handed opener, Tanzid Hasan has already amassed 413 runs in 21 ODIs, including three half-centuries. His ability to counter both spin and pace makes him a crucial asset at the top of the order. However, he must convert his starts into substantial scores to provide stability to Bangladesh’s innings. His form will be pivotal in setting the foundation for the team’s batting efforts.
2. Soumya Sarkar – All-rounder
Soumya Sarkar’s versatility makes him a valuable asset in Bangladesh’s top order. With 2198 runs in 75 ODIs, including three centuries and 13 fifties, he has the ability to accelerate scoring during the powerplay. Additionally, his medium pace bowling, which has yielded 16 wickets, offers Bangladesh an extra bowling option. However, inconsistency has plagued his career, and he must find reliability to cement his role.
3. Nazmul Hossain Shanto (C) – Captain & Middle-order Batsman
Captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto has been one of Bangladesh’s most dependable batters, scoring 1488 runs in 47 ODIs at an average of 35. His composed and technically sound batting makes him an ideal candidate to anchor the innings. As a leader, his role will extend beyond batting, requiring tactical acumen to guide Bangladesh through challenging matchups.
4. Mehidy Hasan Miraz – All-rounder
A genuine all-rounder, Mehidy Hasan Miraz has been a crucial player for Bangladesh, accumulating 1599 runs and 110 wickets in 103 ODIs. His off-spin bowling often provides crucial breakthroughs, and his ability to bat in the lower-middle order strengthens the team’s lineup. His adaptability will be key in high-pressure situations.
5. Mushfiqur Rahim (WK) – Wicketkeeper-Batsman
One of Bangladesh’s most experienced players, Mushfiqur Rahim has played 272 ODIs, amassing 7793 runs, including nine centuries and 49 half-centuries. As a seasoned campaigner, his role in stabilizing the middle order and accelerating during the death overs will be crucial. Additionally, his wicketkeeping expertise adds immense value to the team.
6. Towhid Hridoy – Middle-order Batsman
A rising talent, Towhid Hridoy has accumulated 877 runs in 33 ODIs at an average of 34. His ability to accelerate the scoring rate in the middle overs makes him a vital component of the lineup. If he can improve his shot selection and temperament, he could emerge as a game-changer for Bangladesh in crunch moments.
7. Jaker Ali – Finisher
Despite limited international exposure, Jaker Ali has shown promise with 151 runs in just five ODIs at an impressive strike rate of 118. His aggressive approach makes him a valuable finisher, capable of providing the late-innings fireworks that Bangladesh has often lacked. Given the opportunity, he could become a dependable lower-order batter.
8. Rishad Hossain – Leg-spinner & Lower-order Batter
A wrist-spinner with significant potential, Rishad Hossain has taken five wickets in seven ODIs. His presence offers Bangladesh much-needed variety in the spin department. Additionally, his big-hitting ability, highlighted by an unbeaten 48* in ODIs, adds depth to the batting order. His role will be crucial in breaking partnerships and controlling the middle overs.
9. Tanzim Hasan Sakib – Fast Bowler
A promising pacer, Tanzim Hasan Sakib has picked up 13 wickets in just nine ODIs. His ability to swing the ball and generate pace makes him an essential part of Bangladesh’s attack. If he maintains consistency, he could play a key role in dismantling opposition batting lineups during the tournament.
10. Mustafizur Rahman – Left-arm Pacer
One of Bangladesh’s most accomplished bowlers, Mustafizur Rahman has taken 172 wickets in 107 ODIs. Renowned for his deceptive cutters and variations, he is especially effective in the death overs. If he finds his rhythm, he will be Bangladesh’s go-to bowler in pressure situations, capable of delivering match-winning spells.
11. Taskin Ahmed – Strike Bowler
With 109 wickets in 77 ODIs, Taskin Ahmed brings raw pace and aggression to Bangladesh’s bowling attack. His ability to generate bounce and extract movement off the pitch makes him a crucial weapon, especially against top-order batters. His partnership with Mustafizur will be vital in ensuring Bangladesh’s bowling unit remains potent throughout the tournament.
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Final Thoughts: Can Bangladesh Make an Impact?
Bangladesh has historically struggled to make a deep run in ICC tournaments, but their semi-final appearance in the 2017 Champions Trophy proves that they have the capability to surprise stronger teams. The current squad, while lacking the experience of past generations, possesses the energy and skill to challenge top-ranked opponents.
The key to Bangladesh’s success will lie in:
- Strong top-order performances: Tanzid Hasan and Soumya Sarkar must provide steady starts.
- Middle-order stability: Shanto, Mushfiqur, and Hridoy must anchor the innings and build partnerships.
- All-round balance: Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Soumya Sarkar must contribute effectively with both bat and ball.
- Effective bowling strategy: Mustafizur, Taskin, and Sakib must spearhead the attack and control the opposition.
Bangladesh’s ability to handle pressure moments, execute strategies efficiently, and capitalize on key opportunities will determine their fate in the 2025 Champions Trophy. While the road ahead is challenging, the Tigers have the talent and determination to make a significant impact on the tournament.
