• Home
  • Who Said What
  • If Nahid Rana Plays Shanto On Launching Bangladeshs Rawalpindi Express Vs India

'If Nahid Rana Plays...': Shanto On Launching Bangladesh's Rawalpindi Express Vs India

Muskaan Bhatt

Nahid Rana (Source: @SalmanAsif2007/X.com)Nahid Rana (Source: @SalmanAsif2007/X.com)

Story continues below ADVERTISEMENT

The late 90's and 2000's were lucky enough to witness the sheer pace and aggression of Shoaib Akhtar, one of the finest pacers to have ever graced the game of cricket. While each bowler has his own strengths and abilities, it seems that Bangladesh has unearthed a glimpse of the Rawalpindi Express in their very own Nahid Rana.

The 22-year-old, who recently became the first Bangladeshi pacer to reach 150 kmph, is being praised as Bangladesh's version of Shoaib Akhtar. With 20 wickets in six Tests and four scalps in three ODIs, grounded Nahid has shown glimpses of his potential. Nevertheless, the biggest test of his skill and capability is due and will be receiving a green signal in the upcoming India versus Bangladesh clash of ICC's Champions Trophy 2025.

While talking about Bangladesh's chances against India and expressing faith in his all-rounders and pacers, especially Rana, to rattle India, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto said:

“We have good memories against India. If we execute our plan well, we have a good chance,” he said in the pre-match press conference in Dubai. "We have some good fast bowlers, and if Rana plays, he will do the job. We have a good balance of spin and pace,” he added.

The Bangladesh cricket team is in Group A of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, alongside India, New Zealand, and co-host Pakistan. Their opening match will be against India on February 20 at the Dubai International Stadium. 

Bangladesh will then play New Zealand and Pakistan on February 24 and 27 at the Rawalpindi Stadium. Take a quick look at their squad for the upcoming match:

Bangladesh squad for Champions Trophy

Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossai Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Nahid Rana