Bangladesh Cricket Team: Strength And Weakness Of Shakib Al Hasan And Co For ODI World Cup

Cricket World Cup 2023: In the run-up to the highly-anticipated World Cup, Bangladesh cricket team has stirred up a whirlwind of emotions and debates among fans and experts alike. As the last team to announce their squad for the tournament, the omission of veteran opener Tamim Iqbal has sparked controversy and divided the cricketing fraternity in Bangladesh. 

In an attempt to quell the tensions surrounding the squad selection, skipper Shakib Al Hasan took an exclusive stance to clarify the team's decisions. Meanwhile, Tamim Iqbal took to social media to express his own opinions, further fueling the discussions and uncertainties. Amidst this chaos, Bangladesh are gearing up to cultivate positive energy and play with a clear mindset in the upcoming Championship.

Bangladesh's squad for ODI World Cup 2023

The Tigers have made significant changes to their squad, including the exclusion of Tamim Iqbal due to concerns over his inconsistent fitness. Additionally, Afif Hossain, Mohammad Naim, Soumya Sarkar, and the injured Ebadot Hossain failed to make the final cut. In a move that garnered favour among fans, Mahmudullah Riyad made a comeback to the squad, adding experience to the team's roster.

Shakib Al Hasan (c), Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto (vc), Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib.

Bangladesh arrive in Guwahati 🇧🇩🏏#BCB | #Cricket | #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/7uonV6vb6h

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) September 27, 2023

Bangladesh's Strengths in ODI World Cup 2023

Bangladesh's middle-order batting has long been a source of strength for the team. The combination of Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah has repeatedly delivered crucial runs in high-pressure situations against higher-ranked opponents. The emergence of Towhid Hridoy as a stabilising presence augments the middle-order's potential. Bangladesh boast a formidable spin attack, with four spinners in the squad capable of bowling their full quota of 10 overs. The presence of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Shakib Al Hasan, and Sheikh Mahedi Hasan offers Bangladesh a potent weapon in spin-friendly conditions. Moreover, Mahmudullah Riyad and Towhid Hridoy can contribute with handy part-time finger spin, enhancing the team's flexibility.

Bangladesh's Weaknesses in ODI World Cup 2023

One of the glaring weaknesses in the Bangladesh squad is the instability at the top of the order. While Najmul Hossain Shanto has shown promise, the team has been grappling with issues in the opening combination. Litton Das has struggled to perform consistently, and the absence of Tamim Iqbal, a reliable opener, leaves a void at the top. To address this concern, Bangladesh may consider promoting Shanto or Miraz to open alongside Litton.

Bangladesh's Opportunities in ODI World Cup 2023

Despite the tumultuous build-up, the World Cup presents an opportunity for the Bangladesh cricket team to silence their critics. With conditions in India resembling those at home, the team has a favourable setting to convert their intentions into actions. The pacers, under the guidance of coach Allan Donald, appear revitalised and eager to make an impact. Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed are showing promising signs, while Shoriful Islam and Hasan Mahmud have impressed with their ability to make the new ball talk.

Watch as we unveil the players who will carry our hopes to the ICC World Cup 2023. The stage is set! 🏆🏏@DarazBangladesh #BCB | #Cricket | #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/JMhehA5nl2

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) September 26, 2023

Bangladesh's Threats in ODI World Cup 2023

The team faces internal challenges, including disputes, ego clashes, and miscommunication, which have surfaced as significant threats to their unity and focus. Shakib Al Hasan, despite his initial reluctance, has taken on the captaincy role out of a sense of responsibility and a desire to unify the team. Overcoming these internal issues and aligning everyone's interests and goals will be a formidable challenge.

Bangladesh's schedule in ODI World Cup 2023

October 7: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan (Dharamsala), 10:30 AM IST 
October 10: Bangladesh vs England (Dharamsala), 2 PM IST
October 13: Bangladesh vs New Zealand (Chennai), 10:30 AM IST
October 19: India vs Bangladesh (Pune), 2 PM IST 
October 24: Bangladesh vs South Africa (Mumbai), 2 PM IST 
October 28: Bangladesh vs Netherlands (Kolkata), 2 PM IST
October 31: Bangladesh vs Pakistan (Kolkata), 2 PM IST
November 6: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka (Delhi), 2 PM IST
November 12: Bangladesh vs Australia (Pune), 10:30 AM IST

Prediction for Bangladesh in ODI World Cup 2023 

Bangladesh team currently find itself in a challenging period, with external noise and internal discord potentially impacting their performance. While the team possesses a blend of experience and youthful talent, it is unlikely that they will make it to the knockout stages of the World Cup. However, with determination and unity, they have the potential to secure valiant victories against some of the top-ranked nations, showcasing the resilience of Bangladesh cricket on the global stage.