Shamim in T20 squad for Zim tour, Sohan called up for all formats

Youngster Shamim Hossain, who had an impressive season so far for Prime Doleshwar in the ongoing Bangabandhu Dhaka Premier Division T20 Cricket League, has been called up for the national team for their T20 series in Zimbabwe with Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announcing a 16-member squad today.

There was no place for pacers Rubel Hossain, Al Amin Hossain and Hasan Mahmud, all of whom were named in the T20 squad for New Zealand series in February. Mohammad Mithun and Mosaddek Hossain were excluded from the T20 squad as well, although both have been named in 17-member ODI squad against Zimbabwe. Wicket-keeper Nurul Hasan Sohan, who has been in fantastic touch for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi in this season's premier league was rewarded with a call-up for all three formats. Mushfiqur Rahim was granted leave for the three-match T20I series, slated to be begin on July 23 and Nurul will likely take up the gloves during the T20Is.

Shamim, who is an electric fielder and bowls part-time, has impressed with his aggression and technique coming in to bat lower down the order. He can put the long handle to good use with the willow and his ability to bat at the death overs may have given enough selectors enough ammunition to make a case for his inclusion.

The Tigers are expected to depart for Zimbabwe on June 29th and will play a two-day warm-up match on July 3 before the lone Test commences on July 7. Following a warm-up match on  July 14th, the three ODIs are scheduled to be played on July 16, 18 and 20 respectively.