Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has passed a strong message to India ahead of their highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener on February 20 (today).
Speaking at a press conference in Dubai on Wednesday, Shanto expressed confidence in his team’s ability to beat any opponent, citing the recent development of Bangladesh’s fast-bowling attack as a key factor.
“For years, we have struggled with our seam attack, but over the last couple of years, we have developed some quality fast bowlers,” Shanto stated.
“Now we have Nahid Rana and Taskin Ahmed, and the way they are bowling is a huge advantage for us. As a captain, I love watching them bowl with pace and aggression.”
Nahid Rana, a young pacer who has made an impact since his debut, was singled out for praise by Shanto, who credited him with injecting energy into the bowling unit.
“In the last few months, he has bowled exceptionally well and with great speed. When we see him perform like this, it lifts the entire bowling attack and motivates us to take on any opposition,” the left-handed batsman added.
Shanto further asserted that Bangladesh is capable of defeating any team in the tournament, provided they stick to their game plan.
“We believe we can beat any team in this competition. Every squad here has the potential to win,” he said.
“But I don’t focus too much on the opponent. If we execute our strategies properly, we can come out victorious.”
Bangladesh Squad
Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (VC), Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.