Bangladesh has become the first Asian team to announce their squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, naming a 15-member team led by Najmul Hossain Shanto.
Veteran all-rounder and former captain Shakib Al Hasan has been excluded from the squad.
His omission comes after he failed a second bowling action test last month at England’s Loughborough University. This led to a ban on his bowling in both domestic and international cricket.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) had been considering his inclusion until the failed test. Shakib’s absence leaves a significant gap in the team, but Shanto, a rising star, will captain the side in the prestigious tournament.
The Champions Trophy begins next month, with Bangladesh aiming to make a strong impact under their new captain.
Moreover, New Zealand have unveiled their 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, marking Mitchell Santner’s debut as skipper in a major ICC event.
Santner, who has enjoyed recent success as New Zealand’s white-ball captain in ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka, will lead a squad blending seasoned players with fresh talent.
Santner will lead the spin department with support from versatile all-rounders Michael Bracewell, Glenn Phillips, and Rachin Ravindra. Batting depth is provided by Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, and Will Young, ensuring the team has balance across disciplines.
The squad reflects a strategic mix of experience and new talent, with the management eyeing a strong performance in the Champions Trophy. Williamson, who also played in the 2013 edition in England, and Latham will aim to guide younger players in high-pressure situations.
New Zealand’s group-stage fixtures promise intense matchups. After facing Pakistan in Karachi, the Black Caps will take on Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on 24 February, followed by a high-profile clash with India in Dubai on 2 March.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 offers New Zealand a chance to solidify their status as one of the top sides in world cricket, with hopes of claiming their first title in this tournament’s history.
New Zealand Squad:
Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young.
