Before the World Cup, batsmen are becoming increasingly anxious

As the ICC T20 World Cup approaches, Bangladesh’s batters are grappling with form issues that are raising concerns for national selectors.

Just two days ago, Saif Hasan was spotted at the outer ground of Sylhet International Stadium, putting in nearly two hours of solitary batting practice with the aid of a throw-down bowler. After missing out on a spot in the playing XI in the previous match, the national team’s T20 vice-captain appeared determined to work on every gap in his game.

Later that evening, Saif made it back into the Dhaka Capitals’ XI against Sylhet Titans, scoring 22 runs off 14 balls at number five. Yet, his performances in the preceding four matches highlight why he was initially dropped: 1, 9, 1, and 15 runs in four innings.

Saif is not alone in his struggle. None of Bangladesh’s regular T20 XI batters have been able to fire consistently in the current Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), leaving selectors worried about the team’s readiness for the World Cup. With the national side largely inactive internationally for nearly two months, these domestic performances carry added significance. Among World Cup prospects, only Parvez Hossain ranks among the BPL’s top ten run-scorers so far.

Last year’s standout T20 performer, opener Tanzid Hasan, who topped the charts for sixes and aggregate runs, has also struggled this season despite being signed directly by Rajshahi Warriors. His scores over six matches—10, 20, 29, 2, 21, and 5—fall short of expectations. Rajshahi coach Hannan Sarkar remains confident, stating, “Players still have time to regain form. One or two strong T20 performances can restore confidence quickly.”

Captain Liton Das, primarily a number three batsman for Bangladesh, is opening for Rangpur Riders in the BPL. After a promising 47 off 31 balls in his first match, he has since scored a total of 129 runs over six matches, indicating inconsistency.

The middle order has fared no better. With Zaker Ali out, the burden falls on Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, and Nurul Hasan. Only Shamim has delivered a match-defining innings—81 off 43 balls—yet it came in a losing cause. Towhid, purchased at the second-highest price by Rangpur Riders, has managed only 106 runs from six matches at a strike rate of 109.27, while captain Nurul has scored just 20 runs in four innings.

The only encouraging note is Parvez Hossain’s form at number four for Sylhet Titans, with 236 runs at a strike rate near 140 across eight matches.

With the World Cup looming, Bangladesh’s batting remains the biggest concern. If the team does qualify, selectors will be hoping for a turnaround from their key performers.

BPL 2026 Key Batting Performances (Selected Players)