Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced the squad for the first two matches of the three-match T20 series against Ireland. Compared to the recent series against the West Indies, there are two major changes: Shakib Hossain and Taskin Ahmed have been left out, with Saifuddin and Mahidul Islam drafted in their place.
Taskin is currently playing in the Abu Dhabi T10 League. BCB had initially granted him a no-objection certificate until 23 November, which has now been extended. The selectors also wanted to give an opportunity to new players in preparation for the T20 World Cup.
Shakib Hossain has been dropped due to form concerns. Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain explained, “Shakib has failed to score double-digit runs in five of his last seven matches. We are giving him a break while trying new options. Mahidul has been added to provide a backup for the crucial No. 4–5 batting positions ahead of the World Cup.”
Mahidul has not yet played a T20 international for Bangladesh, despite featuring in one Test and three ODIs. He did, however, participate in the Rising Stars Asia Cup and impressed in the recent BPL, scoring 316 runs from 12 innings at a strike rate of 174.58.
Saifuddin, who was in the squad but didn’t play in the last series, returns this time, bringing experience and all-round skills that could prove vital.
The three-match series will take place at the Bir Shreshtha Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram, with matches scheduled for 27 November, 29 November, and 2 December.
Bangladesh T20 Squad vs Ireland
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Liton Das | Captain |
| Saif Hassan | Vice-Captain |
| Tanzid Hasan | Batsman |
| Parvez Hossain | Batsman |
| Towhid Hridoy | Batsman |
| Zaker Ali | Batsman |
| Nurul Hasan | Batsman |
| Mahidul Islam | Batsman (New) |
| Mehedi Hasan | All-Rounder |
| Rishad Hossain | All-Rounder |
| Nasum Ahmed | Pacer |
| Mustafizur Rahman | Pacer |
| Tanzim Hasan | Pacer |
| Shariful Islam | Pacer |
| Saifuddin | All-Rounder (New) |