Table of Contents
After a hard-fought ODI series that ended in favour of New Zealand with a 2-1 scoreline, Bangladesh are gearing up for redemption in the upcoming three-match T20I series. Despite the setback in the ODIs, Bangladesh gained a significant morale boost by securing their maiden ODI victory on New Zealand soil in the last match, marking a historic achievement. The focus now shifts to the T20Is, where Bangladesh, led by dynamic captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, aim to turn the tables and showcase their prowess in the shortest format.
T20I fixtures and venue: A clash of titans in Napier and Mount Maunganui
The highly anticipated T20I series kicks off on December 27 at McLean Park, Napier. Subsequent clashes between the two cricketing powerhouses will unfold at the picturesque Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The matches are scheduled to provide a thrilling cricketing spectacle as both teams compete fiercely for T20I supremacy. The battle promises to be intense, with each venue setting the stage for an enthralling contest between Bangladesh and New Zealand in the T20I arena.
Bangladesh’s top-choice playing eleven for the T20I series against New Zealand:
Versatile openers:
1. Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain): Najmul Hossain Shanto, an explosive left-handed opener, adds firepower to Bangladesh’s top order with his aggressive batting style. Known for his power-hitting capabilities, Shanto has the ability to set the tone for the innings and provide the team with crucial early momentum.
2. Litton Kumer Das: Litton Kumer Das, a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, plays a dual role as a solid opener and a reliable wicketkeeper. His presence in the top order not only ensures stability with the bat but also adds depth to the team’s keeping department.
Solid- middle order:
3. Rony Talukdar: Rony Talukdar is a solid middle-order batter who brings a balanced approach to Bangladesh’s batting lineup. His ability to anchor the innings and play crucial roles in building partnerships makes him a valuable asset in the middle order.
4. Tawhid Hridoy: Tawhid Hridoy, a promising young talent, plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the middle order. With a combination of technique and aggression, Hridoy contributes to the team’s batting strength during crucial phases of the game.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Bowlers shine as Bangladesh register historic win over New Zealand in 3rd ODI
Dynamic all-rounders
5. Soumya Sarkar: Soumya Sarkar, an experienced all-rounder, brings powerful batting and medium-pace bowling skills to the table. His contributions in both departments of the game make him a reliable choice for Bangladesh’s all-round options.
6. Shamim Hossain: Shamim Hossain is an explosive all-rounder known for his big-hitting prowess and handy medium-pace bowling. His ability to turn the game with quick runs and breakthroughs with the ball makes him a key player in the all-rounder category.
7. Shakib Al Hasan: Shakib Al Hasan, a world-class all-rounder, boasts exceptional skills in both batting and left-arm spin. With vast experience and a proven track record, Shakib’s inclusion strengthens Bangladesh’s chances, providing leadership and match-winning capabilities.
8. Afif Hossain Dhrubo: Afif Hossain Dhrubo, a versatile all-rounder, significantly contributes with both bat and ball. His batting skills combined with the ability to pick up wickets make him a valuable asset for Bangladesh, providing balance to the team.
9. Mehidy Hasan Miraz (vice captain): Mehidy Hasan Miraz, serving as the vice-captain, is an off-spinning all-rounder. His expertise in spin bowling and lower-order batting strength make him an essential part of the team’s composition.
Potent-bowling attack:
10. Mustafizur Rahman: Mustafizur Rahman, a skilled left-arm pacer, is known for his deceptive variations and the ability to strike in crucial moments. His presence adds depth and experience to Bangladesh’s bowling lineup.
11. Shoriful Islam: Shoriful Islam, a promising young fast bowler, contributes pace and aggression to Bangladesh’s bowling attack. His ability to generate bounce and pick up wickets makes him a valuable asset for the team.