Bangladesh are heading into the Asia Cup 2025 with a clear aim: to finally lift their maiden title. Known for their fighting spirit and ability to punch above their weight, the Tigers are shaping a squad that mixes experience with exciting young talent. With the tournament scheduled in the UAE from September 9 to 28, the conditions are expected to suit their spin-heavy arsenal.
While the official squad is yet to be announced by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), based on recent performances, team combinations, and fitness updates, a likely squad is beginning to take shape.
Bangladesh Squad for Asia Cup 2025 (Expected)
| Player Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Shakib Al Hasan (C) | All-Rounder |
| Litton Das | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Najmul Hossain Shanto | Top-order Batter |
| Towhid Hridoy | Middle-order Batter |
| Mahmudullah | Batting All-Rounder |
| Afif Hossain | Batting All-Rounder |
| Mehidy Hasan Miraz | Spin All-Rounder |
| Taskin Ahmed | Fast Bowler |
| Mustafizur Rahman | Left-arm Fast Bowler |
| Hasan Mahmud | Right-arm Fast Bowler |
| Rishad Hossain | Leg-spinner |
| Mohammad Saifuddin | Seam-bowling All-Rounder |
| Nurul Hasan | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Tanzid Hasan | Opener |
| Nasum Ahmed | Left-arm Spinner |
📌 Note: This is an expected squad based on current form and recent T20I performances. The official squad will be announced by BCB closer to the tournament.
Key Players to Watch
- Shakib Al Hasan: Bangladesh’s talisman with both bat and ball. Expected to lead from the front.
- Litton Das: A stylish top-order batter who can change games early.
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Crucial in UAE conditions, offers control and handy lower-order batting.
- Mustafizur Rahman: The experienced left-arm seamer who excels in death overs.
- Towhid Hridoy: Emerging as a reliable middle-order force in T20s.
Predicted Playing XI for Bangladesh
- Litton Das (WK)
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Towhid Hridoy
- Shakib Al Hasan (C)
- Mahmudullah
- Afif Hossain
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Mohammad Saifuddin
- Taskin Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Rishad Hossain / Nasum Ahmed
Bangladesh Group‑Stage Fixtures (Asia Cup 2025)
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| September 11 | Bangladesh vs Hong Kong | UAE |
| September 13 | Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka | UAE |
| September 16 | Afghanistan vs Bangladesh | UAE |
Squad Analysis: Strength in Depth & Spin
Bangladesh’s expected squad offers several tactical options. The blend of veteran calmness and young energy makes them a formidable unit in subcontinental conditions. UAE’s slow surfaces will suit their spin trio of Mehidy, Rishad, and Nasum, while Shakib provides both experience and leadership.
Strengths:
- Experienced All-Rounders: Shakib, Mahmudullah, Afif, and Mehidy give balance across departments.
- Spin Depth: Bangladesh has quality spinners ideal for UAE wickets.
- Improved Middle-order: Youngsters like Hridoy have added stability in crunch situations.
Weaknesses:
- Pace Inconsistency: Apart from Mustafizur, the pace unit lacks T20 consistency under pressure.
- Finishing Power: The absence of an explosive lower-order hitter could hurt in high chases.
Recent Form and Build-Up
Bangladesh have shown marked improvement in T20 cricket, with a strong home series against Zimbabwe and competitive performances in their away tour of Ireland. Several players also featured in various T20 leagues globally, gaining exposure and rhythm ahead of the Asia Cup.
Can Bangladesh Break Their Asia Cup Drought?
Bangladesh have been runners-up three times in the Asia Cup (2012, 2016, 2018), always falling just short. With a more mature core and a format that rewards consistency, Asia Cup 2025 could finally be their moment.
If the big names fire and the younger players step up under pressure, Bangladesh might just rewrite history in the UAE.
Frequently Asked Questions – Bangladesh Squad
1. Has Bangladesh announced its squad for Asia Cup 2025?
As of now, Bangladesh has not officially announced its final squad for the Asia Cup 2025.
2. Who is likely to captain Bangladesh in the Asia Cup 2025?
While the official confirmation is pending, Najmul Hossain Shanto is widely expected to lead the team.
3. Will Shakib Al Hasan be part of the squad?
There is no official update yet on Shakib’s participation. His inclusion will depend on fitness and selection.
4. Where will Asia Cup 2025 matches be held?
Asia Cup 2025 matches are scheduled to take place in the UAE, despite initial hosting rights with India.
5. When will Bangladesh announce its final squad?
The final squad is expected to be announced in early August 2025, ahead of the tournament kickoff.
