Bangladesh Squad for West Indies ODI Series 2024

A New Leader at the Helm

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially announced its squad for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies, set to take place at Warner Park in St Kitts. All-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz will take on the captaincy role in ODIs for the first time, stepping in for Najmul Hossain Shanto, who is recovering from a groin injury. This series marks a crucial opportunity for Miraz to extend his leadership credentials after recently leading Bangladesh in the Test series.

The first ODI is scheduled for December 8, with the remaining matches to follow on December 10 and 12.

Injury Concerns and Squad Changes

Bangladesh’s preparation for the series has been hindered by injuries to key players. Apart from Shanto, middle-order batsman Tawhid Hridoy has also been ruled out due to a groin issue. BCB Sports Physician Monzur Hossain Chowdhury confirmed that Hridoy would need a two-week recovery period, leaving his participation in future matches uncertain.

Hridoy’s absence leaves a significant gap in the middle order, prompting the selectors to bring back Afif Hossain Dhrubo, who has not featured in an ODI since December 2023. His return is seen as a chance to revitalize his international career and add depth to the batting lineup.

Meanwhile, Zakir Hasan, who was part of the team during the ODI series against Afghanistan in the UAE last month, has been omitted. The selectors have retained fast bowler Nahid Rana, who impressed in his debut series against Afghanistan.

A Balanced Squad with Promising Talent

The squad reflects a mix of experience and emerging talent. Litton Kumer Das will take up wicketkeeping duties, while seasoned campaigners like Mahmudullah and Taskin Ahmed provide stability. Exciting prospects such as Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Parvez Hossain Emon are expected to inject fresh energy into the batting order.

Left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed and leg-spinner Rishad Hossain will lead the spin attack, while the pace department includes the likes of Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

Squad List

• Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Captain)
• Litton Kumer Das (WK)
• Tanzid Hasan Tamim
• Soumya Sarkar
• Parvez Hossain Emon
• Mahmudullah
• Jaker Ali Anik
• Afif Hossain Dhrubo
• Rishad Hossain
• Nasum Ahmed
• Taskin Ahmed
• Hasan Mahmud
• Shoriful Islam
• Tanzim Hasan Sakib
• Nahid Rana

A Chance to Build Momentum

The series offers a significant opportunity for Bangladesh to fine-tune their ODI strategy ahead of major international tournaments. For Mehidy Hasan Miraz, this series will be a crucial test of his leadership abilities, particularly in managing a team with several fresh faces and navigating injury setbacks.

The inclusion of Afif Hossain and the retention of Nahid Rana highlight Bangladesh’s focus on building a balanced squad capable of adapting to varying match situations.

Series Schedule

All matches will be played at Warner Park, Basseterre, St Kitts:

• First ODI: December 8, 2024
• Second ODI: December 10, 2024
• Third ODI: December 12, 2024

Anticipation Builds

As the team gears up for this important series, fans will be eager to see how the new-look Bangladesh side performs under Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s leadership. With key players sidelined and promising talents stepping into the spotlight, the series against the West Indies promises to be an intriguing contest.