Bangladesh is set to face hosts India in the Asian Cup qualifiers on March 25 in Shillong. In preparation for this crucial match, 24 national team players departed for India on Thursday morning (March 20) at 9:00 am.
Coach Javier Cabrera initially named a 38-man preliminary squad for the fixture. After cutting nine players, he took 28 footballers to a training camp in Saudi Arabia. From that group, four more players were dropped before the final squad flew to India.
On Wednesday (March 19), a photo shoot was conducted with 27 players at the team hotel, followed by an evening training session at Kings Arena. However, Piyas Ahmed Nova, Taj Uddin, and Arif did not make the final cut.
Despite not being part of the Saudi training camp, Hamza Choudhury has been included in the squad. Other key players such as Tariq Kazi, Topu Barman, and Saad Uddin will also feature in the match.
Optimism Ahead of the Clash
Before departure, team manager Amer Khan expressed confidence in the team's preparations. Speaking at the airport, he said, "Our playing strategy will be based on the coaching staff's plans. However, we are feeling more optimistic about this tour. The entire squad believes that Hamza Choudhury's inclusion has brought fresh energy to the team. His presence has boosted morale, which will help us perform better."
Bangladesh Squad for India Tour
- Goalkeepers: Mitul Marma, Sujon Hossain
- Defenders: Tariq Kazi, Topu Barman, Rahmat Mia, Shakil Husain, Isha Faysal
- Midfielders: Hamza Choudhury, Jamal Bhuiyan, Mehedi Hasan Shrabon, Shakil Ahad, Mohammad Hridoy, Kazem Kirmani, Md. Sohel Rana, Sohel Rana, Chandan Roy
- Forwards: Saad Uddin, Mujibur Rahman, Sheikh Morsalin, Faysal Ahmed, Rakib Hossain, Shahriar Iman, Mohammad Ibrahim, Al Amin.
