Why Shakib Al Hasan is not playing the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

Bangladesh will be without their veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking a significant moment in the country’s cricketing history. This is the first time since 2004 that Bangladesh will participate in an ICC event without Shakib, a player who has been a cornerstone of their cricketing success across formats. Shakib's absence is felt deeply, as he has been one of the country's most dependable performers, both with the bat and the ball, in international cricket. Shakib had earlier announced his retirement from T20I and Test cricket but expressed his desire to continue playing in the 50-over format for Bangladesh, particularly ODIs. However, despite his intention to play on in the 50-over format, his name was notably absent when Bangladesh unveiled their squad for the Champions Trophy.

Bangladesh dropped Shakib Al Hasan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025?

This decision came as a surprise to many, given Shakib’s immense experience and leadership qualities that have often guided the team through tough situations. Shakib's absence has certainly left a gap in the team, both in terms of leadership and experience. Bangladesh will have to adjust to this setback and look for alternative players to step up and fill the void left by their star all-rounder in the prestigious tournament.

The main reason behind Shakib Al Hasan’s exclusion from Bangladesh’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 was his recent ban on bowling due to an illegal action. This ban has significantly limited his role within the team, as Shakib has long been known for his dual impact with both bat and ball. Had Bangladesh included him in the squad, they would have only been able to use him as a batsman. However, Shakib’s form with the bat in recent times had also been underwhelming across formats, which likely influenced the decision to move forward without him.

This snub could well mark the end of Shakib’s international career. While he remains one of the most iconic players in Bangladesh’s cricket history, his omission from the Champions Trophy is a stark reminder that even the greatest careers face difficult transitions. Over the years, Shakib has accumulated more than 14,000 runs and 700 wickets across all formats, establishing himself as one of the most accomplished cricketers of his generation. His leadership, experience, and all-around contributions have been invaluable to the team. Shakib’s absence from the Champions Trophy may signal a shift in Bangladesh’s cricketing future, as the team looks to evolve without its legendary all-rounder. Nevertheless, Shakib will always be remembered as one of Bangladesh’s finest cricketing talents and an integral part of their rise on the global stage.

Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first against India in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash, a decision that caught many by surprise. Historically, chasing teams have had the upper hand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, particularly due to the impact of dew in the second innings. The decision to bat first, therefore, was seen as a bold move by Bangladesh, as they hoped to set a challenging total for India to chase. However, the team’s approach would depend on how the pitch behaved and how they could cope with the pressure of setting a target.

India, on the other hand, made two notable changes to their playing XI from the third ODI against England. Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammad Shami were included in the side, bringing additional experience and balance to the team. Jadeja's all-around ability and Shami's proven skills with the ball in limited-overs cricket were expected to strengthen India’s lineup. As a result, Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy made way for the two seasoned players. This reshuffling was aimed at ensuring a more balanced and versatile team, particularly for the challenges posed by the opposition and conditions. Both teams were expected to approach the game cautiously, and the result of the toss could prove pivotal in shaping the course of the match. The pressure of batting first on such a big occasion would be on Bangladesh, while India, with their strong bowling lineup, would look to capitalize on the dew factor if they were chasing.

Bangladesh Playing XI: Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto(c), Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman.

India Playing XI: Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(w), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav.