Mehidy Hasan Miraz to Miss Netherlands Series Ahead of Asia Cup 2025
Bangladesh cricket has been dealt a small but significant blow ahead of their Asia Cup 2025 campaign as senior all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz has opted out of the upcoming three-match T20I series against the Netherlands. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed the development on Tuesday, citing personal reasons for his absence.
According to BCB officials, Mehidy has taken leave from August 20 to September 4 in order to be with his wife, who is reportedly unwell. His decision means he will not be part of Bangladesh’s preparatory camp in Sylhet, where the rest of the squad has already shifted on Tuesday evening.
“Mehidy took leave from August 20 to September 4 to be with his wife as she is not keeping well,” a BCB official told Cricbuzz.
This decision, while understandable from a personal standpoint, creates a gap in Bangladesh’s build-up to the Asia Cup 2025, which begins on September 9 in the UAE.
Importance of Mehidy Hasan to Bangladesh
At just 28 years old, Mehidy Hasan Miraz has already established himself as one of Bangladesh’s most dependable all-rounders across formats. Known for his accurate off-spin bowling and ability to anchor or accelerate with the bat, Miraz provides crucial balance to the Bangladesh T20 side.
In recent years, he has been particularly valuable in the shortest format, where his ability to operate in the powerplay with the ball and contribute quick cameos down the order has often swung games in Bangladesh’s favor.
His absence, therefore, means Bangladesh will need to rethink their bowling options and middle-order strategies against the Netherlands.
Bangladesh’s Preparation Without Mehidy
Despite this setback, Bangladesh’s squad has already started their skill and fitness camp in Sylhet. Head coach Chandika Hathurusingha and captain Litton Das will now need to test alternative all-rounder options in Mehidy’s absence.
The likely contenders to step up include:
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Mahedi Hasan – another off-spinner who can replicate some of Mehidy’s role.
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Shakib Al Hasan – although primarily a batting all-rounder in this phase of his career, his experience provides cushion.
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Afif Hossain – a batting option who can bowl part-time spin.
The Netherlands series was seen as an ideal testing ground before the Asia Cup. With Mehidy unavailable, the selectors and management may use this opportunity to give more chances to youngsters.
The Netherlands Challenge
The Netherlands team is set to arrive in Bangladesh on August 26, and they will get three training days before the first T20I on August 30. The series will be played entirely at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, with the second and third games on September 1 and September 3. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
The Dutch side has grown in stature over the past few years, with their spirited performances in ICC tournaments earning them respect from stronger cricketing nations. For Bangladesh, this series will be less about the opponent and more about fine-tuning their own squad ahead of the Asia Cup.
Mehidy’s Last T20I Appearance
Mehidy Hasan Miraz last featured in Bangladesh’s home T20I series against Pakistan earlier this year. Though his batting opportunities were limited, his bowling remained effective in controlling the middle overs.
Given his match-winning credentials, his absence against the Netherlands will definitely be felt. However, Bangladesh will be hopeful that he returns fully refreshed and mentally prepared for the high-pressure Asia Cup tournament. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Asia Cup 2025 – The Bigger Picture
The Asia Cup 2025 is scheduled in the United Arab Emirates from September 9, with Bangladesh once again entering the tournament with hopes of breaking their title drought. The Asia Cup has always been a tricky competition for Bangladesh – they have reached the finals multiple times in both ODI and T20 formats but have never managed to lift the trophy. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
For the team to succeed, senior players like Litton Das, Shakib Al Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, and Taskin Ahmed will need to step up. The return of Mehidy Hasan after September 4 will therefore be crucial, as his presence provides tactical flexibility and depth. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
Mehidy’s decision also highlights the human side of cricketers. Often under immense public and professional pressure, athletes must sometimes make difficult choices to balance their family responsibilities with national duty. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Fans and experts alike have expressed support for Mehidy, wishing his wife a speedy recovery. In the long run, such decisions are expected to strengthen a player’s mental health and readiness, ensuring they can perform better when they eventually return. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
While Bangladesh will miss Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the upcoming Bangladesh vs Netherlands T20I series, the bigger picture remains the Asia Cup 2025. His absence provides opportunities for other players to step up, while ensuring that Mehidy can be fully focused and available for the tournament in the UAE. Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Bangladesh’s management, fans, and teammates will undoubtedly back him during this personal phase, with hopes that he returns stronger both on and off the field.
