The announcement of Bangladesh’s 15-man squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup has sparked more disappointment than excitement. The exclusion of seasoned pacer Mashrafe Mortaza, a fan favourite, has left a sour taste among supporters. Citing fitness concerns, the selectors left him out of the squad despite his efforts to recover from an injury sustained in December. This decision raises pertinent questions about risk management, strategy, and the psychological value of veteran presence in a tournament as intense as the World Cup.
The Mortaza Dilemma: Fitness vs. Experience
Mortaza's absence feels like a gamble - one that Bangladesh cricket may regret. Although the Australian surgeon treating Mortaza suggested he would regain fitness in time for the tournament, the selectors decided otherwise. This approach contrasts starkly with that of Australia, whose selectors opted to take calculated risks by including injured stalwarts like Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey in their World Cup squad. Both players were recovering from significant injuries—Ponting from finger surgery and Hussey from a hamstring tear—but their experience and potential impact on crucial games justified their selection.
The logic behind Australia’s strategy is simple: even an injured star can provide leadership, boost morale, and deliver key performances in pivotal moments. Mortaza, with his knack for early breakthroughs and extensive World Cup experience, could have been a similar asset for Bangladesh. His performance in the 2007 World Cup still lingers in the collective memory of fans, and his presence would have been a psychological lift for the squad. His fitness might have gradually improved during the tournament, and he could have contributed even with limited spells, especially in high-stakes games.
Missed Opportunities: Kapali's Absence and Tactical Gaps
The omission of Alok Kapali is another questionable decision. With a surplus of off-spinners already in the squad, including a leg-spinner like Kapali would have introduced valuable variety to the bowling attack. Historically, teams such as England, South Africa, and the West Indies have shown vulnerabilities against leg-spin. Kapali’s all-round abilities would also have been useful in the lower middle order, where he could offer stability with the bat at number 7 or 8.
Conversely, the selection of **Rokibul Hasan** appears puzzling. While reliable in bilateral series, Rokibul's limitations become more pronounced in the high-pressure environment of a multi-nation tournament. His conservative batting style may not suit the aggressive intent needed on the World Cup stage. This creates a selection conundrum: the team must find the right balance between stability and dynamism in the middle order.
Bright Spots: Shahriar Nafees and Emerging Talent
The inclusion of Shahriar Nafees brings some solace. His elegance and ability to anchor innings make him a welcome addition, and he should ideally replace Junaid Siddique in the final XI. Furthermore, Jahurul Islam, a gutsy young player, deserved a spot in the squad, but his exclusion reflects the fierce competition for limited places.
There are also questions about the role of Mohammad Ashraful, whose inconsistency has frustrated fans and selectors alike. However, Ashraful's flair and ability to improvise in the final overs might still prove decisive. If deployed correctly, perhaps at No. 6 where he can play with freedom, Ashraful could produce a few match-winning performances. Mushfiqur Rahim, with his excellent ability to rotate the strike, could take the No. 4 slot to stabilize the middle order.
The Ideal XI and Strategic Priorities
The combination of Shakib Al Hasan, Mahmudullah Riad, and Suhrawadi Shuvo forms the backbone of the spin attack, aligning with Bangladesh’s recent successes with left-arm spin. With **Shafiul Islam** and Rubel Hossain leading the pace attack, the bowling unit appears balanced, though the absence of Mortaza leaves a void in experience and leadership. Given these constraints, my suggested playing XI would be:
1. Tamim Iqbal
2. Imrul Kayes
3. Shahriar Nafees
4. Mushfiqur Rahim
5. Shakib Al Hasan
6. Mohammad Ashraful
7. Mahmudullah Riad
8. Suhrawadi Shuvo
9. Shafiul Islam
10. Rubel Hossain
11. Abdur Razzak
This XI offers a blend of stability, firepower, and variety, with Tamim and Imrul providing a solid opening pair. The middle order is structured around Mushfiqur, Shakib, and Mahmudullah, who can both anchor and accelerate as needed. Ashraful slotted at No. 6, has the freedom to play fearlessly and capitalize on the death overs.
Navigating the World Cup: The Path Ahead
Expectations are high. With **150 million Bangladeshis** rallying behind them, the team must approach this tournament with resolve and professionalism. The goal is clear: to surpass the achievements of the 2007 World Cup, where Bangladesh stunned major teams but missed out on the Super 8. Failure to reach the quarterfinals this time would be a significant setback.
The World Cup is not a bilateral series where past performances dictate future outcomes; it demands adaptability, focus, and strategic acumen. The coach and captain must extract the best from this squad and fine-tune the playing XI for every match. Though Mortaza’s absence is undeniably a blow, dwelling on it would only hinder the team’s progress.
Success in a tournament of this magnitude requires more than just skill - it requires belief, unity, and a relentless desire to win. If Bangladesh can harness these qualities, they have the potential to punch above their weight and make a deep run in the tournament.
In the end, the Tigers must remember that history is not written by excuses but by those who dare to rise above challenges. The path to glory lies ahead—if they can seize the moment, this could be the World Cup where Bangladesh cricket truly comes of age.
Thank You
Faisal Caesar
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