As the countdown to the T20 World Cup continues, discussions around Bangladesh’s squad selection have reached a fever pitch. According to reliable sources, wicketkeeper-batter Zaker Ali Anik is unlikely to be included in the preliminary squad for the upcoming tournament.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has reportedly already submitted the selectors’ finalized list to the International Cricket Council (ICC). While an official announcement is still pending, insiders suggest that the chances of any major changes to the submitted squad are minimal—making Zaker’s omission increasingly probable.

Several cricketing nations, including India, Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan, and Oman, have already announced their World Cup squads by the end of December. Bangladesh is expected to follow suit very soon, possibly as early as tomorrow, by revealing its 15-member squad.

In the spin department, left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed faces competition from Tanvir Islam, whose name has also emerged prominently in selection discussions.

According to ICC regulations, participating teams must submit their preliminary squads at least one month before the tournament begins. However, teams retain the flexibility to make changes until the day before the tournament starts. In Bangladesh’s case, this means adjustments can be made up until February 1 if deemed necessary.

Ahead of the World Cup, the Tigers are scheduled to play two warm-up matches. The team, led by Litton Kumar Das, is expected to travel to India on January 28 as part of their final preparations.