Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto remains unbothered by India missing Jasprit Bumrah in their Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Dubai today. Speaking ahead of the much-awaited clash, Shanto dismissed concerns about Bumrah’s absence, emphasizing that Bangladesh is focused on executing its own plans rather than worrying about individual opponents.
Shanto’s take on Bumrah’s absence
When asked whether Bangladesh felt relieved not to face Bumrah, Shanto initially avoided the question, choosing instead to highlight his team’s preparation for the tournament. Upon being pressed again, he stated:
“I’m not someone thinking about any individual cricketer. I think they have a lot of quality players, so we are thinking about how we execute our plans.”
Bumrah was initially included in India’s provisional squad for the tournament but was later ruled out due to a back injury sustained during the Border Gavaskar Trophy. He was replaced by Harshit Rana in the 15-member squad.
With Bumrah unavailable, Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh are expected to lead India’s pace attack, while three frontline spinners could feature in the playing XI.
Bangladesh’s game plan and squad confidence
Ahead of the match, Shanto expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete against any side, stressing that execution is key rather than focusing on opposition strengths.
“A winning start always gives momentum, and our only target is to make a good start by winning the game. If we execute our plan properly, we can beat any team on any day.”
Bangladesh, which has won only four of their 12 ODIs since the 2023 World Cup, is relying on its fast bowling attack—led by Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and rising pacer Nahid Rana—to make an impact.
Pace bowling resurgence and Nahid Rana’s role
Shanto acknowledged Bangladesh’s historical struggles with pace bowling, but he believes the current unit is well-equipped to handle the challenge.
“For years, we struggled with our seam attack, but in the last couple of years, we’ve developed some quality fast bowlers. With Taskin and Nahid Rana performing well, our bowling unit is stronger.”
He also spoke highly of Nahid Rana, calling him a “special talent” and expressing confidence in his ability to perform on the big stage.
Batting preparations and playing conditions
Bangladesh’s opening pair of Tanzid Hasan and Soumya Sarkar is expected to lead the charge. Shanto noted that while scoring conditions in Dubai may differ from Pakistan, his team is prepared to adjust accordingly.
Despite their struggles against India in ICC tournaments—Bangladesh has beaten India only once in ICC events (2007 World Cup)—Shanto remains optimistic about his team’s chances in the Champions Trophy.
As both teams gear up for their tournament opener, all eyes will be on whether Bangladesh can turn the tables against a formidable Indian side.