United News of Bangladesh

All eyes are on Colombo as Pakistan and New Zealand face off in the opening Super Eight match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at the R Premadasa Stadium on Saturday. With semi-final places on the line and no room for mistakes in the Super Eight stage, both teams are keen to make a strong start and gain early momentum. The clash brings together two leading T20 sides whose rivalry has repeatedly produced high-intensity and memorable contests. Pakistan enter the match with greater familiarity with local conditions, having remained in Sri Lanka throughout the group stage. New Zealand, by contrast, arrived in Colombo after playing all their first-round matches in India. Although Pakistan played most of their group matches at the SSC Ground, they trained extensively at the Premadasa Stadium. The venue is known for its slow surface, low bounce and spin-friendly conditions, especially under lights. These factors could play a key role, given Pakistan’s strong spin resources and experience on subcontinental pitches. However, the same ground also witnessed Pakistan’s heavy defeat to India earlier in the tournament, a setback they will be eager to overcome with a solid performance. Historically, the T20I contest between the two sides has been closely fought. Pakistan hold a narrow overall advantage, winning 24 of their 47 matches, while New Zealand have won 23. Recent form, however, slightly favours the Black Caps, who secured a convincing 4–1 series win over Pakistan at home earlier this year. Zimbabwe stays unbeaten, beats Sri Lanka to top T20 World Cup group In T20 World Cup meetings, Pakistan have enjoyed greater success. They have won four of their six encounters against New Zealand, including a semi-final victory in the inaugural 2007 tournament, as well as wins in 2009, 2012 and 2021. New Zealand’s wins have been dramatic, including a one-run victory in 2012 and a 22-run success in 2021, underlining their tactical strength in major tournaments. The rivalry has also produced high-scoring games. Pakistan’s highest T20I total against New Zealand is 207 for 1, while New Zealand have posted an even bigger 226 for 8. One of the standout performances came from Finn Allen, who scored a blistering 137 in a recent bilateral series. Pakistan have also delivered memorable moments, notably Umar Gul’s six-wicket haul in the 2009 World Cup, regarded as one of the finest bowling spells in the tournament’s history. Both teams suffered one loss in the group stage. Pakistan were beaten by India, while New Zealand narrowly lost to South Africa. Those defeats have sharpened their focus as the competition moves into its decisive phase. Pakistan will look for consistency from their top order and stronger execution at the death. New Zealand, meanwhile, will rely on aggressive batting and disciplined bowling to challenge their opponents. With only the top two teams from the Super Eight advancing to the semi-finals, every match carries knockout pressure, making Saturday’s encounter crucial for both sides. Meanwhile, the toss is expected to play an important role. New Zealand batter Mark Chapman said Sri Lankan conditions present a unique challenge, particularly for batters. He noted that spin is likely to be more influential than in India and highlighted Pakistan’s varied spin attack as a major threat. Chapman also said New Zealand are prepared, having faced Pakistan frequently in recent years. New Zealand are hopeful their bowlers will make an impact, with expectations high for Mitchell Santner, whose experience and variations could prove vital on the slow surface. #From Geo News

Zimbabwe completed the group stage of the T20 World Cup unbeaten after defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets on Thursday, with Brian Bennett finishing a chase set up by captain Sikandar Raza. Zimbabwe topped Group B, which also featured former champions Sri Lanka and Australia. Zimbabwe will open their Super Eights campaign against the West Indies in Mumbai on Monday, while Sri Lanka are set to host England in Pallekele on Saturday. Sri Lanka chose to bat and posted 178 for 7, but Zimbabwe chased down the target with three balls remaining, finishing on 182 for 4. Bennett anchored the innings with an unbeaten 63 off 48 balls and remains not out throughout the tournament after earlier scores against Oman and Australia. Pathum Nissanka once again led Sri Lanka’s batting with 62 off 41 balls, following his unbeaten century against Australia. Pavan Rathnayake added 44 from 25 deliveries to lift the total. Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka said his team lacked confidence in the field and hoped for a stronger showing next time. Raza said few expected Zimbabwe to reach the Super Eights and that the team is enjoying its underdog status. He added that winning two of their next three games could open up further possibilities. West Indies also finished the group stage unbeaten after defeating Italy by 42 runs at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Captain Shai Hope led the way with 75 off 46 balls, while Italy were dismissed for 123 despite Ben Manenti’s 26. Shamar Joseph starred with 4 for 30 and also took four catches as West Indies defended 165. Italy ended their first World Cup campaign with praise after notable performances, including a win over Nepal and a narrow loss to England. Captain Harry Manenti said more matches and funding would help associate nations become more competitive. England scrape past Italy to reach Super Eight In Chennai, Afghanistan beat Canada by 82 runs in a match between two teams already out of contention. Ibrahim Zadran fell just short of a maiden men’s T20 World Cup century, scoring an unbeaten 95 from 56 balls as Afghanistan reached 200 for 4. Canada were restricted to 118 for 8, with Mohammad Nabi claiming a career-best 4 for 7. Zadran said he was not disappointed to miss the hundred and was focused on contributing to the team’s total.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has published its new central contract list for the national men's team for 2026, featuring a total of 28 cricketers. Notably, no player has been awarded the highest 'A Plus' category in the latest grading system, which evaluates players based on their recent performance and experience. The new central contract structure divides the players into four active grades out of a possible five. The vacant 'A Plus' grade offers a top monthly salary of BDT 10 lakh. Among the active tiers, four players have been placed in Grade A, earning BDT 8 lakh per month. The bulk of the players, 11 in total, are in Grade B with a monthly salary of BDT 6 lakh. Additionally, six cricketers are in Grade C earning BDT 4 lakh, and seven players have been handed Grade D contracts worth BDT 2 lakh per month. The four cricketers securing the top available Grade A contracts are Test captain Najmul Hossain, ODI captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, T20I captain Litton Kumar Das, and fast bowler Taskin Ahmed. Taskin's placement marks a downgrade, as the pacer held an 'A Plus' contract last year. ICC confirms Bangladesh's direct qualification for 2028 T20 World Cup The Grade B category includes veteran campaigners such as Mushfiqur Rahim, Mustafizur Rahman, and Mominul Haque, alongside Taijul Islam, Towhid Hridoy, Shadman Islam, Tanzid Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, and fast bowler Nahid Rana. Meanwhile, the Grade C bracket comprises Soumya Sarkar, Jaker Ali, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, and Khaled Ahmed. Finally, Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Hasan Murad, Shamim Hossain, and Nurul Hasan make up the Grade D list for the upcoming year.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has put an end to speculation regarding Bangladesh's future in global tournaments, confirming that the Tigers will directly qualify for the 2028 T20 World Cup. Questions had arisen about Bangladesh's eligibility for the next edition after the team opted out of the ongoing tournament in India and Sri Lanka. However, an ICC press release issued today clarified that Bangladesh’s participation in the 2028 event, to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, has been secured based on their ICC T20I team ranking. Bangladesh avoids sanctions as Sethi says ICC ‘backed down’ to end boycott The qualification picture became clear following Pakistan's victory over Namibia in Colombo today, which finalized the Super Eight lineup. The teams advancing to the next round—Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, West Indies, England, South Africa, and New Zealand—have all automatically qualified for the 2028 edition. According to the qualification rules for the 20-team tournament, 12 teams qualify automatically. This includes the co-hosts and the top performers from the current World Cup. While Australia failed to reach the Super Eight this year, their spot is guaranteed as a host nation. With nine spots filled (the Super Eight teams plus Australia), the remaining three automatic slots are determined by the ICC T20I rankings as of March 9, the day after the current World Cup final. ICC delegation lands in Lahore for crisis talks over India-Pakistan World Cup match Currently, Bangladesh sits at 9th in the rankings, followed by Afghanistan at 10th and Ireland at 12th. The ICC noted that with no upcoming T20 International fixtures scheduled before the March 9 cutoff that could mathematically alter these positions, the qualification of Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Ireland is effectively confirmed. The remaining eight spots for the 2028 tournament will be filled through regional qualifiers.

Pakistan silenced any fears of an upset today, dismantling Namibia by 102 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium to book their place in the Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup. The commanding victory takes Pakistan to 6 points in the group stage and secures their direct qualification for the 2028 T20 World Cup. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted a daunting total of 199, anchored by a record-breaking century from opener Sahibzada Farhan. The 29-year-old blazed his way to a maiden international T20 hundred off just 57 balls, setting a new record for the fastest century by a Pakistani in T20 World Cup history. He surpassed Ahmed Shehzad’s 58-ball effort against Bangladesh in 2014, becoming only the second Pakistani to reach triple figures in the tournament's history. Farhan’s innings was a tale of two halves; after a steady start where he took 27 balls for his first 30 runs, he exploded to score his next 70 runs in just 31 deliveries, striking 11 fours and 4 sixes. Rashid Khan creates history with 700 T20 wickets His knock propelled him to the top of the tournament’s run-scoring charts with 220 runs, overtaking South Africa’s Aiden Markram (178). Support came from captain Salman Agha (38 off 23) and a finishing flurry from Shadab Khan (36 off 22). In reply, Namibia crumbled under the pressure of the massive target. They were reduced to 49 for 4 inside 7.3 overs, with key batters Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton and Lohan Louwrens departing early. The collapse was orchestrated by mystery spinner Usman Tariq, who claimed career-best figures of 4 for 16. Leg-spinner Shadab Khan also shone with the ball, taking 3 for 19 as Namibia were bundled out for just 97. This tournament has now seen three centuries—a first for any T20 World Cup edition—with Farhan joining Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka and Canada’s Yuvraj Singh Samra on the honors board.

The Bangladesh 'A' women's cricket team continued their imperious form in the Women's Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament, dismantling the Malaysia women's national team by 90 runs today. The victory secures a clean sweep for Bangladesh in the group stage, having won all three of their matches to finish as undisputed champions of Group B. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Bangladesh posted a commanding total of 151 for 7 in their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by the experienced Lata Mondal, who top-scored with a fluent 48 off 44 balls. ACC summons cricket ace Shakib Al Hasan She found able support from Sharmin Sultana (30) and captain Fahima Khatun (29). Mondal and Khatun stitched together a crucial 55-run partnership for the fifth wicket, helping the team accelerate and add 54 runs in the final five overs. In reply, Malaysia crumbled under pressure, managing only 61 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. Left-arm spinner Fatema Jahan made a dream debut in recognized cricket, tearing through the Malaysian lineup with figures of 3 for 10. She was well supported by off-spinner Sharifa Khatun (2 for 13) and Lata Mondal, who capped a brilliant all-round performance with figures of 1 for 2 from her two overs. Only one Malaysian batter, Nur Arianna Natsya (22 not out), managed to reach double figures as the team slumped to 30 for 7 at one stage in the 13th over. Lata Mondal was named Player of the Match for her all-round contribution. With 6 points from 3 matches, Bangladesh 'A' have topped the group. They previously defeated Sri Lanka 'A' by 4 runs and edged past hosts Thailand by 3 wickets in a thriller. Top 16 brands take part in “bKash Cricket Carnival 2025” Bangladesh will now face Pakistan 'A' in the semi-finals on Friday. The opponent for India 'A' in the other semi-final will be decided by the match between Sri Lanka 'A' and Thailand.

A group of former international cricket captains has urged Pakistan’s government to provide “immediate and adequate medical attention” to jailed former prime minister and cricket legend Imran Khan, citing concerns over his deteriorating health in custody. In a letter sent to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the former players expressed deep concern over reports of worsening eyesight and prison conditions during Khan’s incarceration since August 2023, reports Al Jazeera. The appeal was drafted by former Australian captain Greg Chappell and signed by several prominent cricketers, including Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Clive Lloyd, Allan Border, Ian Chappell, John Wright and David Gower. The signatories said recent reports, including claims that Khan has only about 15 percent vision in his right eye, were alarming and warranted urgent specialist treatment. They also called for humane detention conditions, regular family access and fair legal proceedings. Khan’s family has rejected government claims that his health has improved, saying any assessment without the presence of his personal doctor and family representative is unacceptable. His sister Aleema Khan alleged that authorities ignored his medical complaints for months, leading to serious vision loss. The 73-year-old former all-rounder led Pakistan to its first Cricket World Cup title in 1992 and is widely regarded as one of the country’s greatest cricketers. He was removed from office through a no-confidence vote in 2022 and later imprisoned on multiple charges, which he denies. Supporters of his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have recently staged protests outside parliament demanding proper medical care and access for his family and doctors.

In a contest that evoked memories of their fierce football rivalry, England narrowly avoided a shocking upset against T20 World Cup debutants Italy at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Despite a spirited fightback from the Azzurri, the defending champions held their nerve to secure a 24-run victory and book their spot in the Super Eight. With this win, England finishes the group stage with 6 points from 4 matches, joining the West Indies as the second team to qualify from Group C. Chasing a formidable target of 203, Italy gave England a serious scare, reaching 178 before being bowled out on the final ball of the 20th over. Rashid Khan creates history with 700 T20 wickets The chase was spearheaded by a blistering knock from Ben Manenti, who smashed 60 off just 25 balls, including 6 sixes. His 92-run partnership with Justin Mosca (43 off 34) threatened to take the game away from the English. However, the turning point came in the final two overs. Needing 30 runs from 12 balls, Italy faltered against Sam Curran’s disciplined bowling in the 19th over, which conceded just 5 runs and claimed the crucial wicket of Grant Stewart (45 off 23). Jamie Overton then sealed the deal with a double-wicket maiden in the 20th over. Earlier, England posted 202 for 7 after opting to bat first. All-rounder Will Jacks provided the late flourish, remaining unbeaten on 53 off just 22 balls as England plundered 78 runs in the final 5 overs. Italy’s chase began disastrously, losing both openers for just 1 run in Jofra Archer’s opening over. Despite being reduced to 22 for 3 by the fourth over, the counter-attack led by Manenti and Stewart kept the contest alive until the very end, earning the newcomers respect on the global stage.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Monday dismissed speculations that its president Aminul Islam has left the country permanently following the recent general election. Board officials clarified Aminul Islam is currently in Australia on a personal visit to meet his family and is scheduled to return. Rumours of Aminul’s departure gained traction after several media outlets suggested he might not return, given that the interim government under which he took office is set to hand over power within a day. BCB president Aminul skips India-Pakistan clash in Colombo Adding to the speculation is the fact that Aminul was a resident of Australia before assuming the BCB presidency. Amzad Hussain, BCB Director and Chairman of the Media Committee, told UNB, “He went to meet his family. From there, he will join the Women’s Asia Cup Rising Stars final match. Then he will come back.”   The controversy surrounding Aminul’s travel comes at a turbulent time for Bangladesh cricket. The national team recently opted out of the ongoing T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, citing security concerns in India. The BCB had requested the International Cricket Council (ICC) to relocate their matches to Sri Lanka, a plea that was ultimately rejected. BCB files GD against ‘fabricated’ fixing rumors involving president While some cricket analysts have labeled the withdrawal a diplomatic failure on Islam’s part, the BCB and the outgoing interim government have stood firm on their decision. They maintain that the safety of Bangladeshi players, fans and journalists in India could not be guaranteed and have expressed no regret over the move.

Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan has etched his name in history by becoming the first bowler to claim 700 wickets in recognized T20 cricket. The leg-spinner achieved the monumental milestone during Afghanistan's T20 World Cup match against the United Arab Emirates at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Monday. The historic moment arrived in the 16th over of the UAE innings. Rashid, bowling his final spell, dismissed batter Muhammad Irfan in unusual fashion. Attempting a reverse sweep, Irfan lost his balance and dislodged the bails, resulting in a hit-wicket dismissal. Afghanistan sends South Africa in to bat in must-win T20 World Cup match Rashid had been hovering on the brink of the record since the previous match against South Africa, where he took two wickets to reach 699. Despite the magnitude of the achievement, the Afghan skipper’s celebration was understated, as he appeared focused on the immediate challenge of Super Eight qualification. With this feat, Rashid has established a significant lead at the top of the all-time T20 wicket-taking charts. His nearest rival is former West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo with 631 wickets, while the closest active player is Sunil Narine with 613. Rashid also tops the charts in T20 Internationals with 191 wickets, ahead of New Zealand’s Tim Southee (164) and Ish Sodhi (162). New Zealand script historic chase to beat Afghanistan in World Cup Speaking before the South Africa match last Tuesday, Rashid downplayed the personal accolade. “I didn’t set a goal to stop at 700 wickets. When I play for the country in the World Cup, my 100 percent effort is to take wickets according to the team’s needs,” he said.