DHAKA: Taskin Ahmed, despite nursing an injury sustained during the recent series against Zimbabwe, has secured his place in Bangladesh’s 15-member squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Taskin, who also holds the position of vice-captain, is currently undergoing treatment for a side strain and is expected to regain fitness before the tournament kicks off next month. Although he missed the fifth T20I against Zimbabwe due to the injury, Taskin’s impressive performance throughout the series earned him the title of Player of the Series. Bangladesh’s chief selector, Gazi Ashraf, expressed confidence in Taskin’s recovery, assuring that the medical team is optimistic about his readiness for the tournament.
Meanwhile, Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the team, which includes seasoned players like Shakib Al Hasan. The squad also features Litton Das, despite his recent struggles in white-ball cricket. One notable inclusion is young pacer Tanzim Hasan, chosen over Mohammad Saifuddin based on recent performances. Ashraf highlighted Tanzim’s dedication and effectiveness, particularly in comparison to Saifuddin’s performance against Zimbabwe.
Additionally, Ashraf expressed faith in Litton’s ability to rediscover his form, emphasizing the importance of having two wicketkeeper-batters in the squad. As part of their preparation, Bangladesh will tour the USA for a three-match T20I series in May before their opening match against Sri Lanka on June 8 in Dallas.
Leading the Bangladesh squad is Najmul Hossain Shanto as captain, with Taskin Ahmed as vice-captain. The team also includes Litton Das, Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Shakib Al Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali, Tanvir Islam, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, and Tanzim Hasan. Additionally, Hasan Mahmud and Afif Hossain are named as traveling reserves.
