With at least 75 cricketers involved across five different Bangladesh teams, one notable omission has been wicketkeeper-batter Akbar Ali.
Although he had recently been considered for the national team, Akbar was not selected for any of Bangladesh’s five current squads.
The omission came as a surprise, particularly after reports suggested Akbar could be included in Bangladesh’s T20I squad for Zimbabwe. He subsequently contacted the national selectors to understand the reasons behind the decision.
“To be honest, I was a little disappointed. But as soon as I found out that I wasn't included in any team, I contacted the selectors. I wanted to know what they were thinking about me and what they expected from me,” Akbar told Cricfrenzy.
According to Akbar, the selectors explained the areas where he needs to improve and provided specific feedback on their expectations.
“They gave me an explanation. They helped me understand where I was lacking, where the problems were and what kind of performance they expected from me. They advised me to improve in certain areas, and I am trying to do that,” he said.
Akbar enjoyed an impressive 2025 season as he scored 210 runs at an average of 70 and a strike rate of 113, including a century in a three-match ODI series against South Africa Emerging.
He also helped Rangpur Division win both the first-class and T20 editions of the National Cricket League and was named Player of the Tournament.
He scored 217 runs in 10 matches for Prime Bank in the last Dhaka Premier League, although his opportunities in the most recent Emerging team series were limited to one match against Zimbabwe, where he made 27.
Despite being left out, Akbar said he was satisfied with the selectors' explanation and believes there is still a plan for his development.
“I am satisfied with the way they explained the whole matter. I could also understand some of those things myself. I believe they have a bigger plan for me, which is probably why they asked me to improve in those areas,” he said.
Akbar is currently playing club cricket in England, where he is also working with coaches to address the areas highlighted by the selectors. He has already spoken with several coaches in Bangladesh and plans to continue working with coaches in England.
“I have spoken to the coaches close to me about the problems. They have given me some feedback and may give me more going forward. I will also work with coaches here in England. Hopefully, I can return quickly,” Akbar said.
