Champions Trophy: Can Bangladesh Make History Without Shakib?

February 19, 2025: As Bangladesh embarks on their journey at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, there are several factors to consider. The absence of legendary all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, the lack of recent winning momentum, and the team's difficulties in defending totals are all pressing concerns for the Tigers.

Bilateral Form:
Heading into the tournament, Bangladesh’s recent form in bilateral series has been underwhelming. While they won a series against Sri Lanka at home, they lost all three series abroad, with only four wins from the last 12 ODIs. This lack of success away from home could dampen their confidence as they face some of the world’s best teams.

Positives:

• In-form Batting Lineup: Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossein Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahmadullah, and Mushfiqur Rahim have been consistent performers. These batters can help Bangladesh post competitive totals.
• ‘X Factor’ in Mehidy Hasan: With Shakib’s absence, Mehidy Hasan Miraz has the potential to step up as a match-winner, both with the bat and ball.
• Pacers in Form: Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam are key pacers who’ve been in good form and could be pivotal in breaking partnerships and restricting opposition teams.

Negatives:

• Absence of Shakib Al Hasan: Bangladesh’s all-time great Shakib’s absence is a huge blow. His vast experience and big-match temperament will be missed, especially in high-pressure situations.
• History in ICC Tournaments: Bangladesh has struggled to make a mark in major ICC tournaments, with their best effort being a semifinal appearance in the 2017 Champions Trophy.
• Lack of Winning Momentum: The team’s recent struggles (four wins in the last 12 ODIs) mean they are heading into CT2025 without the necessary confidence and momentum.
• Poor Defending of Totals: Bangladesh has struggled to defend targets in recent ODIs, with only one win from six attempts when setting a total. This could prove problematic in a tournament where chasing might not always be an option.

Key Players from Recent Form:

• Top Run-Getters: Soumya Sarkar (430 runs), Najmul Hossein Shanto (358 runs), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (352 runs), and Mahmudullah (337 runs) have been the backbone of Bangladesh’s batting since the 2023 World Cup.
• Top Wicket-Takers: Taskin Ahmed (14 wickets), Shoriful Islam (13 wickets), and Mustafizur Rahman (11 wickets) are in solid form and will lead the attack in CT2025.

Bangladesh Squad for CT2025:

• Najmul 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

With their first game against India on Thursday, Bangladesh has a tough road ahead. The lack of Shakib’s presence, combined with their struggles in key areas, means Bangladesh must pull off something special to make a deep run in CT2025.