Rishad Confident Bangladesh Will Play the World Cup Directly

Bangladesh’s ODI side is going through a tough period. Once considered one of the stronger teams in the format, the Tigers have recently struggled to find consistency, leading to questions about their chances of qualifying directly for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

In recent days, several media outlets reported that Bangladesh might be forced to play the World Cup qualifiers if they lose the ongoing Afghanistan series or the upcoming West Indies series. However, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has dismissed such claims as baseless.

According to ICC regulations, teams ranked among the top nine will qualify automatically for the 2027 World Cup. Bangladesh remain in that race, and leg-spinner Rishad Hossain remains confident about the team’s chances. Speaking ahead of the final ODI against Afghanistan, the young spinner said confidently, “Everyone believes 100 percent that we’ll qualify directly for the World Cup, In Sha Allah.”

Acknowledging the team’s current struggles, Rishad added, “It’s a tough time, but everyone is giving their 110 percent. Hopefully, we’ll bounce back very soon.”

Despite the absence of senior players, Rishad refuses to use that as an excuse. He explained, “There’s nothing much to say about missing seniors. We’re on a new journey. With everyone’s support and belief, we’ll do better, In Sha Allah.”

The 21-year-old also expressed optimism about Bangladesh’s overall strength and potential, “When our batting, bowling, and fielding click together, I believe even India, England, or Australia won’t be able to stand against us, In Sha Allah. Our focus now is to win the last match and return home, then plan how to do better in the next series.”