The cricket team of Bangladesh has announced their roster for the initial pair of T20 Internationals against the team from Ireland, offering wicketkeeper-batter Mahidul Islam Ankon his first-ever opportunity to play in the T20 format. The group of 15 players, with Litton Das as their leader, also marks the comeback of all-rounder Mohammad Saifuddin, while a few familiar players will not be participating. The series, consisting of three games, is scheduled to take place in Chattogram on the 27th and 29th of November, as well as the 2nd of December.
Mahidul Islam Ankon Receiving Recognition for His Recent Growth
Ankon’s consistent improvement across different formats has finally secured him a spot in Bangladesh’s T20I lineup. The 26-year-old, who debuted in Test cricket in 2024, made a strong impression in the ODI series against the West Indies recently, achieving scores of 46, 17, and 6. It is said that his capability to keep the score moving in the middle stages and adjust to the demands of the game has garnered the attention of the selectors.
Although Ankon has yet to prove himself in T20 international matches, his displays in domestic T20 competitions, where he has exhibited maturity and composure when under pressure, have made a strong case for his inclusion. As Bangladesh aims to broaden its selection of wicketkeepers, the series against Ireland offers Ankon a valuable chance to establish his position for the long run.
Mohammad Saifuddin Returns, While Taskin Ahmed and Shamim Hossain Are Not Included
Another significant point to note is the inclusion of Saifuddin, who is rejoining the team after being absent from the West Indies series. His absence during that tour was largely due to the return of the regular captain; however, the selectors have once again shown confidence in Saifuddin’s ability to perform well in the final overs and his usefulness as a hitter in the lower order.
However, both Taskin Ahmed and Shamim Hossain have been left out of the team. It is understood that Taskin is being rested as he continues to manage his workload in preparation for a packed international schedule, whereas Shamim’s inconsistent performance with the bat seems to have counted against him.
Instead, the selectors have decided on a combination of pace options, which include Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and the returning Saifuddin, giving the management a range of combinations to experiment with.
A Well-Rounded Team as Bangladesh Aims for a Strong Beginning
The team also showcases a number of talented young batsmen, such as Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, and Towhid Hridoy, along with experienced players like Litton, Mahedi Hasan, and Nasum Ahmed, who provide stability.
The leadership structure remains the same, with Litton continuing as the captain and Saif Hassan acting as the vice-captain. Their roles become even more vital as Bangladesh aims to gain momentum before taking on bigger challenges later in the season.
Bangladesh Team for the T20Is against Ireland: Litton Kumer Das (Captain), Saif Hassan (Vice Captain), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Nurul Hasan, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Saifuddin
