Young Talent on a New Stage: Bangladesh A Team Led by Akbar

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) organizes the ‘Emerging Asia Cup’ for rising cricketers from cricket-playing nations across Asia. However, this year the organization has introduced a change. The tournament has been renamed from ‘Emerging’ to ‘Asia Cup Rising Stars’.

The men’s tournament will take place in Doha, Qatar, starting 14 November. Bangladesh ‘A’ team is among the eight teams participating in the tournament. Ahead of the event, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a 15-member squad led by Akbar Ali.

In the ‘Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025’ in Doha, Bangladesh is placed in Group A, alongside Sri Lanka ‘A’, Afghanistan ‘A’, and Hong Kong China. Meanwhile, Group B consists of Pakistan ‘A’, India ‘A’, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman.

The squad announced under Akbar Ali’s leadership presents a fine balance of experience and young talent. The Youth World Cup-winning left-arm spinner Rakibul Hasan and pacer Mohammad Mrityunjoy Chowdhury are part of the team.

Among the newcomers, Jawad Abrar, Zisan Alam, Habibur Rahman Sohan, Swadhin Islam, and Abdul Gaffar Saklain have been given opportunities. Ariful Islam has earned a place as a reward for consistent performance in the youth team. Alongside this young talent, national team batter Yasir Ali Rabbi, who is in excellent form in domestic cricket, has also been included. Another promising name in the batting lineup is S M Mehrab Hossain.

In the pace bowling department, leadership will be provided by experienced national team pacer Abu Haider Rony, who will be accompanied by Mohammad Mrityunjoy Chowdhury, Ripon Mondal, and young pace all-rounder Tofail Ahmed. The spin attack will be led by Rakibul Hasan, who has already established himself as one of the country’s most reliable young spinners.

On the second day of the tournament at the West End International Cricket Stadium in Doha, Bangladesh ‘A’ led by Akbar Ali will face Hong Kong China.

Bangladesh ‘A’ Team:
Akbar Ali (Captain), Yasir Ali Chowdhury, Abu Haider Rony, Mohammad Mrityunjoy Chowdhury, Zisan Alam, Ariful Islam, Rakibul Hasan, Ripon Mondal, Tofail Ahmed, S M Mehrab Hossain, Habibur Rahman, Mahidul Islam Bhuiya, Swadhin Islam, Abdul Gaffar Chowdhury, Jawad Abrar.