Starting XI or the Bench? Jamal Faces Uncertainty

As the Bangladesh–India clash draws near, one man finds himself at the centre of relentless questioning. Every microphone, every camera, every journalist has the same query: “Jamal, will you be in the starting XI?” For weeks now, Jamal Bhuiyan has been confronting a situation no national captain enjoys.

The issue first erupted in Shillong. On the eve of the match, coach Javier Cabrera took Jamal to the press conference—an unmistakable sign of trust. Yet, in a twist no one saw coming, Jamal was dropped the next day. The captain’s armband was passed to Topu Barman. Since then, the veteran midfielder has repeatedly found himself sidelined, sitting out the games against Singapore and Hong Kong in Dhaka, and only coming on as a substitute in the Hong Kong away fixture.

So when asked if he would start today, Jamal simply said, softly but firmly: “I want to play. But it’s not my decision.”

Despite personal disappointment, his belief in the team has not wavered. Playing at home, strengthened by the arrival of Hamza Choudhury and Shamit Som, Jamal insists Bangladesh now hold the upper hand against India. “We are better positioned than they are,” he said.

At 35, he remains a seasoned defensive midfielder, though Cabrera has recently shifted him into multiple roles. His chances of starting tonight are slim, however. The expected line-up includes a defensive unit marshalled by Mitul, with Tariq, Topu, Saad and Zayan ahead of him. Hamza and Shamit will anchor midfield with Sohel Rana and Faisal Fahim, while Rakib’s blistering pace threatens India’s back line.

Even if he comes off the bench, Jamal knows the responsibility he carries. Ninety-two caps, six matches against India, and yet not a single victory in those fixtures. Tonight, he hopes to rewrite that story. “This is the strongest squad Bangladesh have had in years. We must take our chance,” he said.

Bangladesh’s record this year has been bleak—only one win in seven matches. With a long international break coming up, Jamal knows what a win would mean. “It’s an emotional match. Ending the year with a victory would lift not just us, but every supporter.”

He is aware of Bangladesh’s defensive fragility, but believes India’s attacking intent might open doors. “If India push high, we will get space. And Rakib—he is probably the fastest player in South Asia. If he gets room, he can destroy any defence.”

Whether he starts or watches from the bench, tonight’s match may shape the closing chapter of Jamal Bhuiyan’s storied career—and perhaps deliver the long-awaited win Bangladesh have been chasing.