Bangladesh have finalized their preliminary 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and it hasn’t arrived without controversy. With the global event set to begin next month across India and Sri Lanka, the Tigers’ selection has already sparked debate — most notably due to the absence of Najmul Hossain Shanto.
According to reports from The Daily Sun, Shanto’s name does not feature in the initial squad submitted to the ICC, despite the left-hander enjoying a prolific run in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Jaker Ali has also been dropped, as selectors opted for what they believe is a more balanced combination.
Shanto’s omission raises eyebrows despite red-hot BPL form
Shanto’s exclusion is easily the biggest talking point from Bangladesh’s squad announcement. The 26-year-old has been in outstanding form in the BPL 2025–26 season, topping the run charts with 203 runs from four innings. His numbers speak loudly — an average of 67.66 and a strike rate of 147.10 underline the confidence and fluency in his batting.
Despite this, Shanto has largely been out of Bangladesh’s T20I plans in recent times. His focus has shifted towards Tests and ODIs, with his last T20I appearance coming earlier this year against the UAE. In that lone outing, he scored 27 runs at a strike rate of 142.11 — respectable returns, but apparently not enough to force his way back into the selectors’ plans.
A team official, speaking to local media, suggested the decision was taken to avoid a scenario where Shanto would spend the World Cup warming the bench.
Parvez Hossain Emon backed at No. 4
Cricbuzz has reported that Parvez Hossain Emon is expected to bat at number four during the tournament, a role the team management believes suits his skill set. The selectors appear keen to provide him with clarity and continuity heading into a high-pressure global event.
Meanwhile, Jaker Ali’s omission is being attributed to his inconsistent recent performances. The selectors reportedly felt his form did not meet the required standard for World Cup selection.
Shamim Hossain retained as finisher
Shamim Hossain, who missed the first two T20Is against Ireland earlier this year, has managed to hold on to his place. He is expected to feature as a lower-order finisher — a role Bangladesh have struggled to settle in recent ICC tournaments.
The squad was finalized on December 31 in Sylhet following discussions between the selection panel and captain Litton Das. BCB president Aminul Islam gave his approval on January 1, after which the list was officially submitted to the ICC. While changes are permitted until January 20, officials believe the squad is unlikely to change unless something extraordinary happens in the remainder of the BPL.
Tough group awaits Bangladesh
Bangladesh have been drawn into Group C, alongside England, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal. It’s a challenging pool, with two former champions and an unpredictable mix of associate sides capable of causing upsets.
The Tigers will begin their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign on February 7, facing West Indies at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata — a venue known for high-scoring thrillers and relentless crowd pressure.
With form players left out and new roles defined, Bangladesh’s selections suggest a clear plan — but whether it pays off on the world stage remains to be seen.
