Bangladesh are still searching for a reliable pace-bowling all-rounder. The problem is more visible in the shorter formats, where the role has become increasingly important.
Mohammed Saifuddin was once seen as the answer. Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Abdul Gaffar Saqlain have also been considered for the role. But none have been able to establish themselves as regular options.
Saifuddin was included in Bangladesh’s squad for the 2026 Asian Games. He was expected to give the team another option with both bat and ball. However, a right hamstring injury has ruled him out of the tournament. The Bangladesh Cricket Board confirmed that he will need around three weeks to recover.
T20I captain Litton Das said the selectors will decide Saifuddin’s replacement. “Regarding Saifuddin, we know that he is injured. The selectors will decide and let you know very soon who his replacement will be,” Litton told reporters at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
The situation has left Bangladesh short of options. Litton said the three all-rounders who have recently been considered for the role are all injured.
“The last three all-rounders who played are all injured. So at this moment, I don’t see anyone else in Bangladesh,” he said.
Saqlain, who received his first T20I call-up earlier this year, is one of the latest inclusion Bangladesh have looked at for the role.
Despite the current shortage, Litton believes Bangladesh can find a long-term solution. He said the coaches are working with several young players who could develop into pace-bowling all-rounders.
“Yes, there are some young players and the coaches are working with them. Definitely, they will need some time. But hopefully, within a year or a year and a half, we will get something good from them.”
