Bangladesh Hockey Federation has named a 37-player preliminary squad for the Asian Games qualifying tournament in Muscat on 25 March, ahead of the Games in Nagoya, Japan, this September. Players selected for the preliminary squad will undergo a fitness test on 5 February.
Notably absent from the squad is veteran star Rashel Mahmud Jimmy, a player who has repeatedly faced controversial omissions in recent years. Jimmy had previously been left out of the AHF Cup squad earlier in 2025, sparking criticism over transparency and alleged personal grievances within the federation. Despite his consistent performances in domestic competitions, newer players have emerged who are performing at a high level, and the selectors appear to be prioritising youth and form over reputation.
Former national player and long-time assistant coach Md Ashikuzzaman has been appointed head coach of the senior team for the first time. Ashik, who guided Bangladesh’s Under-21 team to the Junior Hockey World Cup and won the AHF Cup as head coach in Singapore, has been tasked with leading the team through the qualifying tournament. “Bangladesh historically performs well in qualifying tournaments, and Oman will be a key rival,” he said.
The squad includes goalkeeper Abu Saeed Nippon, returning after more than a year away from hockey, and striker Pushkar Khisa Mimo, who had been excluded from the Asia Cup last year. However, the exclusion of Jimmy has drawn attention, given his experience and status as one of Bangladesh hockey’s most talented players.
The federation’s selection approach comes amid ongoing internal disputes. In August 2025, four senior players — Puskar Khisa Mimo, Naim Uddin, Mainul Islam Koushik, and Mahbub Hossain — were left out of the Asia Cup squad despite being part of the national camp. The players alleged their exclusion was retaliatory, linked to unresolved tensions from the AHF Cup in Indonesia, where Bangladesh missed direct qualification. Team management, led by Abu Zafar Tapon, denied any personal vendettas, insisting that selections were based solely on performance and fitness.
Observers suggest that the decision to prioritise newer, in-form players reflects both a natural generational shift and an effort to rebuild the team after previous controversies. Former players argue that while Jimmy’s talent is undeniable, the squad must adapt to the evolving competitive landscape and give opportunities to players who are currently excelling.
“Jimmy remains a great player, but there are other players now performing at a higher level consistently,” a former national coach said. “The team has to move forward, and the younger players are ready to step up.”
