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As the ICC Champions Trophy approaches, the Bangladesh cricket team has ramped up their preparations, adopting an “attack without fear” mantra in closed-door sessions at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. With a fierce determination to make an impression on the global stage, the Tigers departed for Dubai brimming with confidence.
The tournament, co-hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, is expected to feature high-scoring games, and the Bangladesh team has embraced aggressive match-scenario training to adapt to these fast-paced conditions. The team management organised intra-squad matches using players not included in the Champions Trophy squad to maintain intensity while experimenting with various strategies and combinations.
In one practice match, the Bangladesh batsmen put on an explosive show, accumulating a staggering 396 runs in just 48 overs. The batting line-up, led by Captain Najmul Hossain, displayed the attacking intent that has become their trademark. Every player contributed, rotating the strike and hitting boundaries to accelerate scoring through the middle overs—essential in high-scoring ODI matches.
The bowlers were put to the test as they faced this powerful batting line-up. Taskin Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Nahid Rana, Rishad Hossain, and Nayeem Hasan were challenged to execute variations and death-over strategies under heavy pressure. Despite conceding runs, the bowlers focused on breaking partnerships, with Rishad Hossain notably taking four wickets.
In another simulated match, the bowlers were tasked with defending 296 runs. The team management also experimented with a flexible batting order, with players like Soumya Sarkar and Mushfiqur Rahim contributing to a thrilling victory, showing their composure under pressure. Nasum Ahmed impressed with a three-wicket haul, underlining his importance in taking wickets at crucial moments.
The overall approach from the team has been one of fearless cricket, encouraging players to take risks, play for wickets, and stay focused on seizing opportunities without fear of the consequences.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced that Mehidy Hasan Miraz will be the vice-captain for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Mehidy, a 27-year-old all-rounder, has already captained the team in recent months during Najmul Hossain Shanto’s injury absence.
Pacers Hasan Mahmud and Khaled Ahmed are set to join the squad in Dubai to train with the team ahead of the Champions Trophy. The bowlers will return home after Bangladesh’s opening match against India on February 20.
