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Bangladesh have unveiled their squad for the first two T20Is against Ireland, handing wicketkeeper-batter Mahidul Islam Ankon his maiden call-up in the shortest format. The 15-member squad, led by Litton Das, also sees the return of all-rounder Mohammad Saifuddin, while a couple of regular faces miss out. The three-match series will take place in Chattogram on November 27, 29 and December 2.
Mahidul Islam Ankon rewarded for recent progress
Ankon’s steady rise across formats has finally earned him a place in Bangladesh’s T20I setup. The 26-year-old, who made his Test debut in 2024, recently impressed in the ODI series against West Indies, where he registered scores of 46, 17 and 6. His ability to rotate strike in the middle overs and adapt to match situations has reportedly caught the selectors’ attention.
While Ankon is yet to be tested in T20 internationals, his performances in domestic T20 competitions — where he has shown maturity and composure under pressure — have strengthened his case. With Bangladesh looking to widen their pool of wicketkeeper-options, the Ireland series presents a timely opportunity for Ankon to stake a long-term claim.
Mohammad Saifuddin returns, Taskin Ahmed and Shamim Hossain left out
Another notable inclusion is Saifuddin, who returns to the squad after missing the West Indies series. His absence on that tour was largely due to the return of the regular captain, but selectors have reposed faith in Saifuddin’s death-overs skills and his utility as a lower-order hitter.
However, Taskin Ahmed and Shamim Hossain have been omitted from the squad. Taskin is believed to have been rested as he continues to manage his workload ahead of a busy international calendar, whereas Shamim’s inconsistent run with the bat appears to have worked against him.
The selectors have instead opted for a mix of pace options, including Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and the returning Saifuddin — giving the management multiple combinations to explore.
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Balanced squad as Bangladesh eye strong start
The squad also features several young batting talents such as Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon and Towhid Hridoy, with experienced campaigners like Litton, Mahedi Hasan and Nasum Ahmed providing stability.
The leadership group remains unchanged, with Litton continuing as captain and Saif Hassan serving as vice-captain. Their roles become even more crucial as Bangladesh look to build momentum before bigger assignments later in the season.
Bangladesh squad for Ireland T20Is: Litton Kumer Das (Captain), Saif Hassan (Vice Captain), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Nurul Hasan, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Shoriful Islam, Mohammad Saifuddin
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