BANGLADESH

Mushfiqur Rahim

Why They’re Important:
Mushfiqur Rahim is a cornerstone of Bangladesh’s batting lineup and one of the best wicketkeepers in world cricket. His ability to perform under pressure, both with the bat and behind the stumps, makes him a reliable and influential player. Rahim is known for his sharp reflexes and determination, qualities that are crucial in a tournament like the ICC Champions Trophy. His consistency in the middle order adds stability to Bangladesh’s batting, while his leadership experience, including captaining Bangladesh in various formats, helps steer the team in high-stakes matches​.

Notable Achievements:
Rahim’s career is dotted with memorable moments, particularly his historic achievements in Bangladesh’s cricket history. He was the first Bangladeshi player to score a double century in Test cricket, showcasing his immense skill and temperament at the highest level. In limited-overs cricket, Rahim’s performances have been pivotal, including key knocks in Bangladesh’s memorable runs in Asia Cups and World Cups. His leadership was instrumental in taking Bangladesh to the 2012 Asia Cup final and leading them to important ODI series wins, like against New Zealand in 2013.

Expected Impact in 2025:
In the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Rahim is expected to play a crucial role, especially with the bat. Given his ability to anchor the innings or accelerate when needed, he can be a game-changer in the middle order. His wicketkeeping will be vital in ensuring Bangladesh’s fielding efficiency, particularly in handling spin-heavy bowling attacks. Rahim’s leadership skills could also come to the fore if he is asked to guide the team through tough situations, making him an indispensable part of the squad​.