Champions Trophy: Nahid Rana Stresses on Effective Strategy Execution

Dubai, Feb 19 (NationPress) As Bangladesh prepares to kick off their 2025 Champions Trophy journey against India, young speedster Nahid Rana emphasized that the bowling unit will concentrate on the effective implementation of their strategies on pitches that are likely to favor batsmen.

Bangladesh is set to commence their Group A fixtures by facing India in Dubai on Thursday, subsequently traveling to Rawalpindi for additional matches against the home team, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Rawalpindi is notable for Rana’s remarkable achievement of dismissing Babar Azam, Shan Masood, and Saud Shakeel within three consecutive overs, which contributed to Bangladesh's memorable 2-0 series victory.

“We have previously played on pitches that were quite favorable for batting, resulting in tighter margins for fast bowlers. Nevertheless, we adapted well and performed exceptionally as a pace attack. The pitches may present even greater challenges during the Champions Trophy, so it’s crucial for us to maintain a focus on proper execution of our strategies,” Nahid stated to ICC on Wednesday.

At just 22, Rana has made headlines as a bowler capable of exceeding speeds of 150 km/h, earning the title of the fastest pacer in Bangladesh’s history. His journey is particularly impressive given that he only began using a hard cricket ball in his late teens after growing up playing with a taped tennis ball in Rajshahi.

“Competing against the world’s top cricketers is an incredible source of motivation. I cherish every moment of my international career. Things have progressed swiftly, and I am thankful for every opportunity. Adapting to international cricket is challenging, but I was fortunate to have played several first-class matches before my debut.

“I believe that exposure to various scenarios and conditions was invaluable. However, international cricket is an entirely different arena. Each day on and off the field offers lessons, from fitness to body care, diet, understanding and fulfilling plans, and learning from coaches and seasoned players. The team anticipated my role as a fast bowler and utilized me as a strike option. I aimed to honor their trust by focusing on my strengths and remaining humble,” he elaborated.

Rana’s potential was recognized by Alamgir Kabir, a divisional coach in Rajshahi for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and a former national player, who helped transition his natural tape-ball skills to bowling with a hard ball.

As he prepares to represent Bangladesh in a global tournament for the first time, Rana shared that he does not set specific speed targets for the future. “My focus is on achieving the right rhythm and release.”

“I’ve learned that maintaining body care and fitness is crucial for bowling at high speeds. When I feel good, I know my pace will follow. Yet, hearing that I can reach around 150 km/h is certainly gratifying.”