Champions Trophy: Nahid Rana Makes Headlines as Bangladesh Prepares to Take on India

Champions Trophy: Nahid Rana Steals the Spotlight as Bangladesh Gears Up for India Clash

Fast bowler Nahid Rana has become the center of attention as Bangladesh prepares to take on India in their Champions Trophy opener on Thursday at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

His raw pace and effortless ability to clock 150 km/h have made him the newest sensation in Bangladesh cricket.

As Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto addressed the media in Dubai on Wednesday ahead of their opening match, most questions—especially from overseas journalists—were focused on Nahid Rana. With the young pacer set to play in his first ICC event, all eyes will be on him. However, Shanto is confident that Nahid can handle the pressure.

“In the last few matches, he bowled really well and bowled fast, as you mentioned. When we see such performances on the field, it boosts our entire bowling unit,” Shanto said.
“It also motivates us to challenge the opposition. That’s something I really appreciate.”

Shanto emphasized the importance of Nahid staying fit to maintain his current form.

“What I want for him is to stay fit so that he can continue bowling the way he is now,” he added.
“I hope he keeps up his performance. We also have two or three other quality fast bowlers, and together, we form a strong bowling unit.”

Bangladesh’s Pace Attack Gains Momentum

Nahid’s inclusion has further strengthened Bangladesh’s fast-bowling attack, which already boasts Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib. His aggressive approach adds a new dimension, making the pace attack a potential threat to any opposition.

For years, Bangladesh struggled with its seam bowling, but the emergence of this formidable fast-bowling unit has drawn significant attention.

Shanto credited the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for its efforts in developing the pace attack by implementing key initiatives.

“The wickets and the ball have changed in our first-class cricket,” Shanto explained.
“We now play with the Duke ball, which encourages fast bowlers to bowl longer spells and develop their skills.”

He also acknowledged the role of both local and overseas coaches in guiding the pacers.

“Our coaches have helped and motivated the fast bowlers. Thanks to BCB for prioritizing fast bowling development, which has played a major role in this transformation.”

Nahid Ready to Face India

Shanto expects Nahid to fire on all cylinders in Bangladesh’s crucial clash against India.

“He recently played a Test match against India, so he has gained some experience. But now, he has to step up and deliver,” Shanto said.
“What I admire about him is that he doesn’t focus too much on the opposition—he simply concentrates on executing his plans.”

With Bangladesh banking on its pace attack, all eyes will be on Nahid Rana as he prepares for his biggest challenge yet.