Former Bangladesh Opener Reckons Mohammed Shami ‘A Big Threat’ Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

Imrul Kayes Highlights Bangladesh’s Opportunity Against India in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

With just days to go before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off, former Bangladesh cricketer Imrul Kayes believes that India’s team will be vulnerable due to the absence of their star bowler, Jasprit Bumrah. Kayes also mentioned that Mohammed Shami’s inclusion could provide a significant advantage to Bangladesh, but only if he can find his rhythm.

Key Insights:

• Bumrah’s absence provides opportunity for Bangladesh. Imrul Kayes pointed out that India’s bowling attack, which is usually led by Bumrah, will be without their ace pacer due to a back injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Kayes sees this as an opportunity for the Najmul Hossain Shanto-led Bangladesh team to take advantage in their upcoming fixture against India.
• Shami’s Role in India’s Bowling Attack: Despite Bumrah’s absence, Kayes emphasized that India’s experienced bowler Mohammed Shami could still pose a significant threat. Shami, who has struggled with fitness issues, will need to find his rhythm to lead India’s pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. Kayes acknowledged Shami’s potential to be a game-changer if he regains form.
• Shami’s ODI Record: The 34-year-old Shami has a solid ODI career, having played 102 matches and taken 197 wickets at an average of 23.96. However, his performance in recent times has been inconsistent, including a modest return of two wickets at an average of 52 in the recent ODI series against England.
• Bangladesh’s Key Absences: Bangladesh will also be without two key players for the tournament—veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan and top-order batter Litton Das. Kayes mentioned that Mehidy Hasan might fill in for Shakib’s role as a batter, but the team will miss Shakib’s contribution with the ball. Shakib’s left-arm spin has been crucial for Bangladesh, and Kayes acknowledged the impact it would have on the team’s bowling attack.
• Mehidy Hasan’s Potential Role: Kayes believes that while Mehidy can fill in for Shakib with the bat, the absence of Shakib’s left-arm spin will be felt. Mehidy, who has batted at various positions, including opening in the 2018 Asia Cup final against India, could provide a solid batting option, but Bangladesh will miss Shakib’s bowling expertise.
• Champions Trophy 2025 Opener: The highly anticipated clash between India and Bangladesh is set to take place on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, marking the tournament opener for both teams.

Final Thoughts:

As India and Bangladesh prepare to meet in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the absence of Jasprit Bumrah and the key injuries in both squads will add a layer of uncertainty. Bangladesh could seize this opportunity to capitalize on India’s weakened pace attack, while the absence of Shakib Al Hasan will leave a significant gap in Bangladesh’s bowling strategy.