In a development that has stirred discussions, Bangladesh’s 16-man squad for the Asia Cup 2025 sees significant changes: Mehidy Hasan Miraz has been left out, while wicketkeeper-batter Nurul Hasan and all-rounder Saif Hassan have earned returns to the senior T20I fold. The squad, captained by Litton Das, also includes both seasoned campaigners and exciting new talents, ready to launch their tournament campaign against Hong Kong.
Mehidy Hasan’s Absence: A Major Talking Point
Mehidy’s omission, especially after recently being named as Bangladesh’s ODI captain, has raised eyebrows. Despite participating in the series win over Pakistan, he has been relegated to the standby list for the Asia Cup. Speculation surrounds the move—whether performance-driven, strategy-based, or chemistry-related—but the decision signals that selectors are prioritizing different skill sets for this multi-nation event.
Nurul Hasan’s Comeback: Experience Meets Opportunity
Wicketkeeper-batter Quazi Nurul Hasan marks his return after nearly three years out of T20I action. His recent form in domestic cricket—including impressive performances in the Bangladesh Premier League, National Cricket League, and Global Super League—earned him renewed selector attention. At 31, his maturity and composure behind the stumps add poise and depth to the side’s middle order.
Saif Hassan Adds Batting Depth
Joining the squad is opener Saif Hassan, returning after over a year. With notable knocks in domestic cricket and the Top End T20s—particularly a half-century against Pakistan’s A side—Saif brings solidity and flair to Bangladesh’s top order. His inclusion provides tactical flexibility and fresh energy at the top of the order.
Building Momentum Before the World Cup
This Asia Cup announcement doubles as a precursor to the T20 World Cup 2026. With the tournament held in the UAE and India, Bangladesh seems intent on balancing experience with youth while sharpening constants like fielding, batting rotations, and spin control. Including Nurul and Saif while holding Mehidy in reserve suggests a shift toward a dynamic, multifaceted approach in their shorter format strategy.
What the Numbers Tell Us
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: A vital part of Bangladesh’s recent ODI journey, known for his off-spin and lower-order batting, but T20 consistency has been questionable.
- Nurul Hasan: A seasoned performer whose recent domestic strike rate and leadership in the Global Super League propelled him back into contention.
- Saif Hassan: An aggressive and technically sound opener capable of rapid starts—valuable in high-pressure T20 scenarios.
Final Thoughts: A New Path Forward
As Bangladesh prepares for three T20Is against the Netherlands before the Asia Cup opener, this selection marks an attempt to recalibrate the squad’s balance. The omission of a former captain like Mehidy invites scrutiny, but the ability to adapt and integrate players like Nurul and Saif illustrates the board’s commitment to dynamic and thoughtful team development.
This reshuffled line-up—inspired by both necessity and opportunity—takes to the Asia Cup not just to compete, but to refine its structure and identity leading into the next major ICC event.
Bangladesh squad for Asia Cup and Netherlands T20Is: