Champions Trophy 2025: Tanzim, Nahid Rana Shine in Pace Attack, but Bangladesh's Weak Middle-Order Raises Concern - SWOT Analysis

Bangladesh is currently undergoing a transition period in the white-ball formats following the departure of star players like Shakib Al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal. The team is now heavily reliant on Najmul Hossain Shanto, but unfortunately, the left-handed batter is currently struggling for form. The middle order, on the other hand, boasts experienced players such as Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah, who will be crucial in determining Bangladesh's chances of reaching the semi-finals.

The best part of the squad is the fast-bowling attack. Led by Taskin Ahmed, the attack comprises Tanzim Hasan and the raw pace of Nahid Rana. Mustafizur Rahman is also in the mix. However, the spin bowling isn't what it used to be back then.

Bangladesh's fielding also leaves a lot to be desired. Ahead of the match against India, Shanto has made it clear that his side will play in the tournament to become champions. "We are going to the Champions Trophy to become champions. All eight teams deserve to be champions in this tournament. They are all quality teams. I believe our team has the ability. No one will feel extra pressure," said Shanto.

Recent form:

Bangladesh head into the Champions Trophy with poor form in ODIs. Recently, the side lost 0-3 against West Indies. In all three games, West Indies chased down targets, and the last ODI saw Bangladesh losing the contest even after putting up more than 320 runs on the board.

Before the series against West Indies, Bangladesh also lost the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan.

Bangladesh won just two of its nine matches in the 2023 ODI World Cup, finishing eighth in the points table.

Bangladesh's Champions Trophy group schedule:

vs India, February 20, Dubai

vs New Zealand, February 24, Rawalpindi

vs Pakistan, February 27, Rawalpindi

Bangladesh's best XI:

Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Jaker Ali, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

Bangladesh's full squad: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana

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