The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has initiated its new Under-23 program, aiming to provide a structured pathway for promising cricketers between the ages of 19 and 23. The program, which began on August 1 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur, is designed to bridge the gap between the Under-19 and High Performance (HP) programs.
Objective of the Under-23 Program
The primary goal of the Under-23 program is to offer young talents a clear and structured pathway to the senior national team. This initiative ensures that promising players receive the necessary training and experience before transitioning to the higher levels of cricket. The program operates under the BCB's Game Development Committee.
Former Bangladesh cricketers and coach Naveed Newaz are leading the coaching setup for the Under-23 team. The coaching staff also includes Alamgir Kabir, Simon Hossain, James, Bappi, and Joy Saha, who will guide the players through rigorous training and competitive matches.
Training and Competitions
As part of the program, the BCB has organized a bilateral series against Malaysia's Under-23 team. Before the three-match one-day series, Bangladesh's Under-23 cricketers will participate in two internal T20 matches to prepare for the upcoming challenges. These practice matches are scheduled for August 8 and 10 in Mirpur.
The three-match one-day series against Malaysia will take place at the Bashundhara Cricket Ground. This series is crucial for the players to gain international experience and showcase their skills on a larger stage.
The BCB’s Under-23 program is a strategic move to nurture young talent and ensure a steady pipeline of skilled players for the national team. By providing a well-structured training program and competitive opportunities, the BCB aims to enhance the overall quality of cricket in the country.
