Bangladesh have made a surprising decision to play defender Bishwanath Ghosh as their main striker in their SAFF Championship opener against Bhutan on Thursday.
Bishwanath, who usually plays in defence, will lead the attack as Bangladesh look to begin their campaign with a victory at the National Stadium in Dhaka.
The starting XI also includes three overseas-based players, with coach Javier Cabrera choosing a 4-3-3 formation for the match.
Bishwanath will play in the centre of the attack, with Foysal Ahmed Fahim on the left wing and Rakib Hossain on the right.
Experienced midfielder Jamal Bhuyan will play alongside Canada-based Shamit Shome in the middle of the pitch. Tariq Kazi will take the defensive midfield role.
Captain Topu Barman will lead the backline alongside Zidane Alexander Yousuf, who will start as a centre back.
Zayyan Ahmed will play at left back, while Saad Uddin will cover the right side of the defence.
Mehedi Hasan Srabon will take his place between the posts.
The decision to use Bishwanath as a centre forward is the biggest surprise in the line-up. Bangladesh will hope the experienced defender can make an impact in his new role.
Bangladesh starting XI:
Mehedi Hasan Srabon, Topu Barman (captain), Zidane Alexander Yousuf, Zayyan Ahmed, Saad Uddin, Tariq Kazi, Shamit Shome, Jamal Bhuyan, Foysal Ahmed Fahim, Rakib Hossain, Bishwanath Ghosh.
