The ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 is poised to kick off on October 18 in Oman, featuring a competitive lineup of eight teams. The teams are divided into two groups of four, with each team playing a match against the other three members of their group. The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals, and the winners of those matches will compete in the final to determine the champion. This tournament promises to showcase emerging talent from across Asia, providing a platform for young cricketers to make their mark on the international stage.

Group composition and historical context

In Group A, the teams are Afghanistan A, Sri Lanka A, Bangladesh A, and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Group B comprises India A, Oman, UAE and Pakistan Shaheens. Historically, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are the most successful teams in this competition, each with two titles to their name. India have also secured one title, adding to the competitive nature of this tournament. The opening match on October 18 will feature a Group A clash between Bangladesh A and Hong Kong, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting ten days of cricket, culminating in the final on October 27.

Bangladesh A’s squad and presence of experience

Bangladesh A has announced a strong squad for the tournament, featuring key players such as Parvez Hossain Emon and Towhid Hridoy. Both players recently participated in the T20I series against India, with Hridoy emerging as a standout performer. He accumulated 77 runs from three matches at an average of 38.50, including a top score of 63 not out. In contrast, Emon struggled, managing only 24 runs in the series, with a highest score of 16. Despite this, the inclusion of both players highlights the blend of experience and emerging talent in the squad. Bangladesh A will commence their campaign in Group B with an opening match against Hong Kong on October 18 at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground (Ministry Turf 1).

Leadership and player contributions

Leading the Bangladesh A side is Akbar Ali, who captained the team to victory in the 2020 U19 World Cup in South Africa. His leadership will be crucial as the team aims for success in this emerging competition. The squad also includes Rakibul Hasan, another player who recently featured in the T20I series against India.

Notably, Maruf Mridha earned his spot in the team following impressive performances in both the U19 Asia Cup and U19 World Cup earlier this year. Additionally, Shamim Hossain, known for his power-hitting abilities, is expected to play a significant role in the middle order. The squad is further strengthened by players like Abu Hider Rony, Jishan Alam, Ripon Mondal.

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Best playing XI for Bangladesh A for the Men’s T20 Emerging Asia Cup 2024:

1. Parvez Emon opens the innings as a left-handed batter known for his aggressive batting style. He has the ability to score quickly in the powerplay, putting pressure on the bowlers. His left-handedness adds a strategic advantage against right-arm bowlers, and he possesses a solid technique that allows him to adapt to various pitch conditions. Emon excels in building partnerships and is effective in running between the wickets, making him a vital part of the top order.

2. Saif Hassan partners with Emon as a right-handed batter, providing a reliable option at the top. He is known for his temperament and solid technique, capable of playing long innings. Saif has the ability to rotate the strike and set a strong foundation for the team, making him an essential component of the opening pair.

3. Naim Sheikh comes in at No. 3, adding a dynamic presence to the batting lineup. As a left-handed batter, he is aggressive and adept at scoring quickly. Naim can stabilize the innings and accelerate when needed, providing flexibility in the batting order.

5. Towhid Hridoy follows at No. 4, recognized for his elegant stroke play and capacity to accelerate the scoring rate. He is effective against both pace and spin bowlers, which allows him to maintain momentum during the middle overs and contribute significantly to the team’s overall score.

5. Akbar Ali (C) takes the No. 5 spot as the captain and wicketkeeper-batter. Known for his leadership skills, he combines batting prowess with tactical acumen. His experience and calm demeanor in high-pressure situations make him a vital component of the middle order, and he can accelerate the scoring rate when needed.

6. Jishan Alam bats at No. 6, bringing experience and technique to the middle order. He is known for his ability to stabilize the innings when needed, as well as for building partnerships. His adaptability to match situations makes him a valuable asset in this position.

7. Shamim Hossain steps in at No. 7, providing explosive batting to the lower middle order. His ability to clear boundaries consistently, especially during the death overs, can change the game’s dynamics. Shamim is also reliable enough to stabilize the innings if early wickets fall. With that as an allrounder he can pick wickets too for his side

8. Rakibul Hasan is an all-rounder at No. 8, contributing with both bat and ball. As a left-handed batter, he offers balance to the lineup, while his off-spin bowling provides an additional option in the bowling attack. Rakibul’s versatility makes him an invaluable player for the team.

9. Aliss Al Islam bats at No. 9 and serves as another all-rounder in the squad. He is capable of aggressive batting as well as right-arm off spin bowling. His ability to contribute in crucial match moments enhances the team’s flexibility in both batting and bowling.

9. Ripon Mondal takes the No. 10 position as a right-arm fast medium bowler. He is known for his ability to generate pace and movement, making him a potent threat on various pitches. Ripon can bowl in both the powerplay and death overs, providing versatility to the bowling attack and the potential for early breakthroughs

11. Abu Hider Rony rounds out the playing XI as a left-arm fast bowler at No. 11. He generates pace and bounce, which are crucial on various surfaces. Rony is capable of executing yorkers effectively, particularly during the closing stages of the innings, adding strength to the bowling lineup.

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