Bangladeshi Government Halts Sacrifice of Viral 'Donald Trump' Cow A rare white cow named "Donald Trump" that gained global attention after being shared on social media has been spared from ritual sacrifice during Eid al-Adha. The government of Bangladesh intervened to stop the planned offering, citing concerns over public interest and safety. The cow, which had become a symbol of internet fame, was originally purchased for the ritual but was halted just hours before the scheduled sacrifice. The cow, weighing approximately 597 kilograms, was named after former U.S. President Donald Trump due to its distinctive white coat and golden fur, which resembled the former leader’s appearance. Videos of the animal, particularly its unique appearance, went viral on platforms like Facebook and YouTube, drawing millions of views. The animal’s owner, Jiyaudin Mritha, explained that his younger brother had initially given it the name as a joke, but the trend quickly spread across the country. The government’s decision to prevent the sacrifice came after the Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order to protect the animal. Officials stated that the cow’s rare white color and its popularity had created an unusual public interest, prompting authorities to intervene. The Ministry also informed buyers who had paid for the cow that their money would be refunded. The cow is now set to be transferred to a zoo, where it will be placed in quarantine for two weeks before being displayed to the public. The zoo’s curator, Atikur Rahman, confirmed that a dedicated enclosure and caretaker will be assigned to the animal. He emphasized that the cow’s unique traits make it a significant attraction, and the zoo aims to ensure its well-being. The incident highlights the intersection of cultural traditions and modern social media trends.#donald_trump #bangladesh #eid_al_adha #jiyaudin_mritha #atikur_rahman
World Test Championship 2025-27: India Faces Major Setback as Bangladesh Overtakes Pakistan Bangladesh's historic 2-0 victory over Pakistan in a two-match Test series has significantly altered the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 points table, pushing India down to sixth place. The Tigers' dominant performance, which included a 104-run win in the first Test and a 78-run triumph in the second, secured their position as the fifth-ranked team, while India slipped to sixth. The series result marked a turning point for Bangladesh, who now hold 58.33 points in the WTC standings. Their success came after a four-Test campaign featuring two wins, one loss, and one draw. Meanwhile, India, which had previously dominated the rankings, now sits at 48.15 points. The Indian team, led by Shubman Gill, has won four Tests but suffered four losses and one draw in their campaign so far. This setback for India follows a disappointing run in the current WTC cycle. Despite reaching the final in the first two editions of the championship, the team has struggled in recent matches. Their 0-2 series loss to South Africa and two defeats in the England tour highlighted their inconsistency. However, India still holds a chance to reclaim the top spot with upcoming fixtures against Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand. The WTC standings also reflect a broader shift in global cricket. Australia remains the top-ranked team with 87.50 points, having won eight of their eight Tests. New Zealand holds second place, followed by South Africa in third and Sri Lanka in fourth. Pakistan, meanwhile, has managed only one win in four Tests, leaving them in eighth place. Bangladesh's rise to fifth place underscores their growing competitiveness in international cricket.#pakistan #india #shubman_gill #bangladesh #world_test_championship_2025_27
India Slips to 6th in WTC Rankings as Bangladesh Surpasses It Bangladesh has overtaken India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table after defeating Pakistan 2-0 in a home series. The result has pushed Bangladesh to fifth place with 58.33% points, while India dropped to sixth with 48.15% points. This marks a significant shift in the rankings, raising concerns for the Indian team, which had previously been a strong contender in the competition. Bangladesh’s victory over Pakistan in two consecutive Test matches—winning by 104 runs in the first game and 78 runs in the second—solidified their position in the standings. Pakistan, now ranked eighth in the WTC cycle, has accumulated one win and three losses, with their points percentage severely impacted by the defeat. The series result has also highlighted the growing competitiveness of Asian teams, as India’s team, led by Shubman Gill, now trails behind three other nations. India’s decline in the rankings is attributed to poor performances in recent Test series. The team’s last Test match was against South Africa in Guwahati in November 2025, where they suffered a crushing 408-run defeat. Additionally, their series against England, which ended in a 2-2 draw, saw two losses that further eroded their winning percentage. With no Test matches played this year, India’s absence from the WTC cycle has contributed to their drop in the rankings. Australia and New Zealand remain at the top of the table, with Australia leading at 87.50% points after seven wins in eight Tests. New Zealand follows at 77.78%, securing second place with two wins and one draw in three Tests. South Africa and Sri Lanka occupy the third and fourth positions, respectively.#pakistan #india #shubman_gill #bangladesh #icc_world_test_championship
India Takes a Major Hit in WTC, Bangladesh Sweeps Pakistan to Snatch 5th Place Bangladesh secured a dominant 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan, propelling the team to fifth place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 points table while pushing India down to sixth. The win marked a significant shift in the rankings, with Bangladesh’s performance in the two-match series solidifying its position ahead of India. Pakistan, meanwhile, remained eighth after a dismal campaign. The series began with Bangladesh defeating Pakistan by 104 runs in the first Test, followed by a 78-run victory in the second match. These results gave Bangladesh four Test matches played, with two wins, one loss, and one draw, earning them 28 points out of a possible 48, translating to a 58.33% win percentage (PCT). This placed the Tigers at fifth in the standings. India, which had 52 points from nine matches (48.15% PCT), slipped to sixth after losing to Bangladesh. India’s struggles continued as it failed to secure a spot in the WTC final for the second consecutive cycle. The team’s recent performances have been inconsistent, with losses to South Africa and England. India’s upcoming Test schedule includes a single match against Afghanistan starting June 6, which will not count toward the current WTC cycle. The team also plans to face Sri Lanka and New Zealand in the coming months, with a crucial series against Australia in 2027 on home soil. Pakistan’s position in the rankings has deteriorated further. After losing both Tests to Bangladesh, the team now has only one win in four matches, earning just 4 points (8.33% PCT). The loss in the second Test saw Pakistan collapse to 358 runs short of its target of 437. The WTC points table currently features Australia at the top with 87.#pakistan #india #australia #bangladesh #world_test_championship
Islam takes 4 wickets as Bangladesh closes in on series sweep against Pakistan after Day 4 SYLHET, Bangladesh (AP) — Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam claimed four crucial wickets on Day 4 of the second Test against Pakistan, propelling Bangladesh closer to a historic series sweep. The hosts reduced the visiting team to 316-7, leaving Pakistan needing 121 runs to avoid a series defeat. Despite a valiant effort from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha, who added 134 runs for the sixth wicket, Bangladesh’s bowlers maintained pressure, setting the stage for a potential four-day victory. The match, played in challenging conditions, saw Taijul dominate the latter stages of the innings. His key breakthrough came when he dismissed Agha with a sharp slider, breaking a promising partnership with Rizwan. Earlier in the day, Nahid Rana’s pace bowling had troubled Pakistan, with his early dismissal of Abdullah Fazal (6) and offspinner Mehidy Hasan’s lbw dismissal of Azan Awais (21) giving Bangladesh control. However, Pakistan’s skipper Shan Masood and Babar Azam resisted, forging a 91-run stand that ended when Taijul trapped Azam lbw for 47. Masood, who survived a close catch at short-leg, and Rizwan continued to build momentum, with Rizwan reaching his 14th half-century and Agha scoring his 12th fifty off 74 balls. Their partnership, however, faced a setback when Agha’s ambitious shot led to his dismissal, leaving Pakistan at 162-6. Despite the setbacks, Rizwan’s resilience shone through, as he swept Taijul past square leg for a boundary, showcasing his composure under pressure. Bangladesh’s bowling coach Shaun Tait praised Taijul’s performance, calling it a “warrior effort” to bowl through the day’s challenges and take the new ball late in the innings.#pakistan #mohammad_rizwan #bangladesh #taijul_islam #shahid_ahmed
Bangladesh reduces Pakistan to 96-4 at lunch on Day 2 of the second test Bangladesh’s bowlers took control of the second Test against Pakistan on Day 2, reducing the visitors to 96-4 at lunch in Sylhet. The hosts, who had declared their first innings at 278, maintained their dominance with disciplined bowling, as fast bowler Taskin Ahmed and off-spinner Mehidy Hasan claimed four wickets to dismantle Pakistan’s batting lineup. Pakistan resumed their second innings on Sunday at 21-0, trailing Bangladesh by 182 runs after the hosts had declared their first innings. The visitors, aiming to level the series after losing the first Test in Dhaka a week earlier, faced a challenging task as Bangladesh’s bowlers tightened their grip. Taskin Ahmed, making an immediate impact, dismissed both Pakistan openers in his first two overs of the day. Abdullah Fazal, who had scored twin half-centuries in the first Test, edged a delivery behind the bat after scoring just nine runs. Taskin then struck with a sharp delivery, dismissing Azan Awais, a centurion in the first Test, who attempted to push the ball to short-leg on 13. Captain Shan Masood and star batter Babar Azam managed to stabilize Pakistan’s innings temporarily, forming a 38-run partnership. However, Mehidy Hasan ended the partnership when Masood hit a short ball straight to the fielder at short cover for 21. Mehidy then claimed another wicket, dismissing Saud Shakeel on 8, leaving Babar Azam to face the majority of the pressure. Babar, who missed the first Test due to a left knee injury, remained not out on 37 at the break, with Salman Agha on 6. Bangladesh’s dominance in the first innings had been led by a brilliant 126 from Litton Das, who anchored the team’s score after they were bowled out for 278.#pakistan #bangladesh #taskin_ahmed #mehidy_hasan #sylhet
Pakistan's cricket team faced a humiliating 104-run defeat in their first Test against Bangladesh, sparking widespread criticism from former players, fans, and analysts. The loss, which marked Pakistan's third consecutive defeat in Bangladesh and their sixth overseas Test loss under captain Shahid Afridi, has raised serious questions about the team's strategy, selection, and performance. Former players like Mohammad Yousuf and Wasim Akram highlighted the team's failure to adapt to overseas conditions, noting that the batting lineup struggled to capitalize on favorable pitches, while the bowling attack, particularly the fast bowlers, lacked consistency. Yousuf criticized the lack of preparation, stating that the team should have focused on "reading the pitch" rather than relying on "luck." Akram emphasized the need for a more disciplined approach, warning that the current trajectory could lead to "disaster" if not addressed. The defeat also exposed the captain's struggles, as Shahid Afridi now has 11 Test losses in 15 matches, a record worse than his predecessor, Inzamam-ul-Haq. Former opener Ahmed Shahzad harshly criticized Afridi's leadership, arguing that his selection as captain was a "mistake" and that the team needs a "strategic overhaul." Social media reactions echoed these sentiments, with fans targeting senior players like Shoaib Malik, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Hafeez for their performances. The loss has further dented Pakistan's hopes in the World Test Championship, where they finished sixth, seventh, and ninth in the past three editions. Former player Nida Dar lamented the gap between Pakistan and top-tier teams, calling the World Test Championship final a "dream" rather than a realistic goal.#bangladesh #shahid_afridi #pakistan_cricket_team #modhammad_yousuf #wasim_akram
ICC Penalizes Pakistan with WTC Point Deduction and Heavy Fine After Dhaka Defeat Pakistan’s cricket team faced significant repercussions from the International Cricket Council (ICC) following their first Test against Bangladesh in Dhaka. The ICC imposed a 40% fine on the team’s match fees and docked eight World Test Championship (WTC) points for maintaining a slow over-rate during the match. The punishment was handed down after Pakistan was found to have fallen eight overs short of the required pace, a decision confirmed by match referee Jeff Crowe. The sanctions came shortly after Pakistan suffered a crushing 104-run defeat to Bangladesh at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur. The loss had already placed Pakistan under pressure, but the ICC’s penalty added further strain. The ICC stated that Pakistan’s team was found to be eight overs short of the mandated over-rate, a calculation that included time allowances for delays. Pakistan captain Shan Masood admitted guilt to the charges, which eliminated the need for a formal hearing. Under ICC regulations, teams lose 5% of their match fee and one WTC point for every over short. Pakistan’s eight-over deficit resulted in a 40% fine and an eight-point deduction. The ICC emphasized that the penalty adhered to the stipulations in the WTC playing conditions, which outline the consequences for delays in over-rate. This penalty severely impacted Pakistan’s standing in the WTC table. Prior to the sanction, Pakistan had accumulated 12 points from one win and two defeats in the cycle. The deduction left them with just four points, placing them at 11.11% in the points percentage, and pushing them to ninth place alongside the West Indies. The defeat in Dhaka had already exposed Pakistan’s batting vulnerabilities.#pakistan #icc #bangladesh #mirpur #shah_masood
Australia Omissions and Squad Changes for Pakistan and Bangladesh Tours Australia has excluded fast bowlers Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood from its limited overs squads for upcoming tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh. The decision comes as the team prepares for the Cricket World Cup in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe in October 2027. Mitchell Marsh will captain both tours, marking his first leadership role in a senior international context. The Pakistan series, starting May 30, will feature a new-look squad with uncapped all-rounder Liam Scott and Australia Under-19 World Cup captain Ollie Peake earning their first senior call-ups. Young batter Joel Davies is also included in the Bangladesh T20 squad, adding fresh talent to the team. Veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell was omitted from the Bangladesh squad, while Travis Head, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, and Xavier Bartlett will join the Bangladesh tour after completing their Indian Premier League commitments. Selection chairman George Bailey emphasized the importance of giving emerging players opportunities to gain experience. “The blend of experienced players and new or returning talent will provide a balanced approach for these subcontinent tours,” Bailey stated. He highlighted the focus on developing players across diverse conditions and experiences over the next 18 to 24 months. Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood are expected to use the break to prepare for Australia’s World Test Championship campaign, which resumes in August with a two-test home series against Bangladesh. The ODI series against Pakistan will take place in Rawalpindi (May 30) and Lahore (June 2 and 4), followed by three ODI games in Dhaka (June 9, 11, and 14) and three T20 Internationals in Chattogram (June 17, 19, and 21).#pakistan #australia #cricket_world_cup #bangladesh #george_bailey
ऑस्ट्रेलिया ने पाकिस्तान और बांग्लादेश के खिलाफ व्हाइट-बॉल दौरों के लिए टीम का ऐलान कर दिया ऑस्ट्रेलिया क्रिकेट बोर्ड ने पाकिस्तान और बांग्लादेश के खिलाफ आगामी वनडे और टी20 सीरीज के लिए अपनी टीम का ऐलान कर दिया है। इस टीम में आईपीएल 2026 के प्लेऑफ और शेड्यूल के कारण कई महत्वपूर्ण बदलाव देखने को मिले हैं। पैट कमिंस, मिचेल स्टार्क और जोश हेजलवुड जैसे दिग्गज खिलाड़ियों को आईपीएल के कारण पूरे दौरे से बाहर रखा गया है, जबकि ट्रैविस हेड और कूपर कोनोली जैसे खिलाड़ियों केवल बांग्लादेश दौरे के लिए उपलब्ध होंगे। ऑली पीक के चयन के पीछे अंडर-19 वर्ल्ड कप में उनके धमाकेदार प्रदर्शन का उल्लेख किया गया है। इस युवा बल्लेबाज को पाकिस्तान के खिलाफ वनडे सीरीज में शामिल किया गया है, जबकि मुख्य चयनकर्ता जॉर्ज बेली ने युवा और अनुभवी खिलाड़ियों के मिश्रण के महत्व को जताया है। ऑली पीक के पास पाकिस्तान की पिचों पर अपनी क्षमता साबित करने का अवसर होगा। आईपीएल के कारण प्रमुख तेज गेंदबाज पैट कमिंस और जोश हेजलवुड को पूरे दौरे से आराम दिया गया है। मिचेल स्टार्क भी वनडे मैचों का हिस्सा नहीं होंगे। टीम की कमान मिचेल मार्श के हाथों होगी। ट्रैविस हेड, कूपर कोनोली, बेन ड्वार्शुइस और जेवियर बार्टलेट जैसे खिलाड़ियों को आईपीएल प्लेऑफ के कारण पाकिस्तान दौरे पर नहीं जा पाएंगे और सीधे 9 जून से बांग्लादेश के खिलाफ वनडे सीरीज में शामिल होंगे। घरेलू क्रिकेट में शानदार प्रदर्शन करने वाले लियाम स्कॉट और जोएल डेविस को अंतरराष्ट्रीय टीम में शामिल किया गया है। बीली स्टैनलेक की 2019 के बाद पहली बार टीम में वापसी हुई है, हालांकि वे केवल पाकिस्तान सीरीज का हिस्सा होंगे। आरोन हार्डी को टी20 टीम में शामिल किया गया है, जबकि ग्लेन मैक्सवेल को बांग्लादेश के खिलाफ टी20 सीरीज से बाहर रखा गया है। पाकिस्तान वनडे टीम में मिचेल मार्श (कप्तान), एलेक्स कैरी, नाथन एलिस, कैमरन ग्रीन, जोश इंग्लिस, मैथ्यू कुहनेमैन, मार्नस लाबुशेन, रिले मेरेडिथ, ओली पीक, मैथ्यू रेनशॉ, तनवीर संघा, लियाम स्कॉट, मैथ्यू शॉर्ट, बिली स्टैनलेक, एडम जम्पा शामिल हैं। बांग्लादेश वनडे टीम में जेवियर...#pakistan #bangladesh #australia_cricket_board #mitchell_marshall #olli_pick
Australia Squad Announced for Pakistan ODI and Bangladesh Limited Overs Series Australia’s cricket team for the upcoming Pakistan ODI series and Bangladesh limited-overs series has been officially announced. Mitchell Marsh, who previously captained the T20 team, has been named captain for the ODI matches against Pakistan and the limited-overs fixtures against Bangladesh. The decision comes as several key players from the IPL 2026 season are set to return to international duties, with Marsh leading the charge. The Pakistan series will feature three One-Day Internationals (ODIs), while the Bangladesh tour includes three ODIs and three T20 Internationals (T20Is). The Australian Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed that the squad for both series will include players who were part of the IPL 2026 season, with Marsh taking charge of the ODI team. This marks a significant shift, as Marsh will now lead the ODI squad alongside his existing role as T20 captain. Notable absences from the ODI squad include players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, who are expected to be busy with IPL commitments until May 31. Similarly, Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, who have retired from ODI cricket, are not part of the ODI squad. Steve Smith, who joined the team as an injury replacement for the T20 World Cup, is also excluded from the ODI squad. The ODI squad for Pakistan includes Mitchell Marsh (captain), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Riley Meredith, Ollie Pope, Matthew Renshaw, Tanvir Sangha, Liam Scott, Matthew Short, Billy Stanlake, and Adam Zampa.#pakistan #ipl_2026 #bangladesh #mitchell_marsh #australia_cricket_board
Pakistan's Azan Awais Scores Century on Test Debut, Becomes 14th Player to Achieve Feat The Pakistan cricket team celebrated a historic milestone as 21-year-old Azan Awais made his Test debut against Bangladesh and smashed a century in his first innings. The match, held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur, marked the start of a two-match Test series between the two nations. Awais, who had previously played domestic cricket, delivered a stellar performance, scoring 103 runs off 165 balls, including 14 fours. His innings, which ended on the third day of the match (May 10, 2026), was a masterclass in patience and precision, with Awais remaining unbeaten until the 51st over when he was dismissed by Tasneem Ahmed, caught by Nazmul Hossain. Awais' achievement places him among an elite group of Pakistani cricketers who have scored centuries on their Test debuts. He joins legends like Javed Miandad, Younis Khan, and Fawad Alam in this exclusive list. His innings was a testament to his composure under pressure, as he navigated the Bangladesh bowling attack with calculated aggression. The young batsman began his innings cautiously, overcoming a minor injury sustained from a bouncing delivery early in his innings. By the end of the day, he had not only secured his team's position in the game but also etched his name into cricket history. The list of previous Pakistani players to achieve this feat includes notable names such as Khalid Ibadullah, who scored 166 against Australia in 1964, and Javed Miandad, who hit 163 against New Zealand in 1976. Other entries include Salim Malik’s 100 against Sri Lanka in 1982, Mohammad Wasim’s 109 against New Zealand in 1996, and Younis Khan’s 107 against Sri Lanka in 2000.#pakistan #bangladesh #sher_e_bangla_national_stadium #azan_awais #tasneem_ahmed
Bangladesh Captain Shanto Delivers Stellar Performance in Test Against Pakistan Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto delivered one of his most impressive performances in a Test match against Pakistan on the first day of the series, according to teammate Mominul Haque. Shanto scored 101 runs off 130 balls, hitting 12 fours and two sixes, as he and Mominul formed a crucial 170-run partnership. The innings came after Bangladesh lost both openers for 31 runs, with Pakistan’s seamers exploiting the new ball’s movement and threatening both edges of the bat. Shanto’s innings began under pressure, as the Pakistani bowlers, particularly Mohammad Abbas, used the new ball to generate significant movement. The left-hander countered by standing outside the crease to neutralize the seamers’ effectiveness. His first boundary was an on-drive off Abbas, a tactic he maintained throughout his innings. Shanto eventually brought up his ninth Test century with a powerful drive through the covers off Abbas, showcasing his composure and adaptability. Mominul praised Shanto’s ability to dominate on a challenging pitch, noting that the new ball’s movement posed a significant challenge for batsmen. “The challenge is more when the ball is new,” Mominul said. “Our openers got out off good balls, but while they played out that phase, it helped us. Shanto’s counter-attack put them on the back foot.” He emphasized that Shanto’s innings put pressure on the bowlers, a rare feat on such a wicket. Mominul also highlighted the significance of Shanto’s performance in the context of his recent form. The captain had already scored a century against New Zealand in an ODI earlier in the month, and this Test innings marked his fourth century in four Tests. “He has been in outstanding form,” Mominul said.#pakistan #bangladesh #najmul_hossain_shanto #mominul_haque #test_match
Bangladesh Secures Historic T20 Victory Over New Zealand Bangladesh achieved a significant milestone in their T20 international career by defeating New Zealand by six wickets in the first match of the series at Chattogram. The victory, secured in just two overs of the chase, marked Bangladesh’s first T20 win against New Zealand and gave them a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. New Zealand’s innings saw a strong start with opener Katen Clark and Dane Clark (both from the same family) scoring half-centuries, but their efforts were in vain as Bangladesh’s bowlers dismantled their batting line-up. The Kiwis posted 182/6 in 20 overs, with Clark (51) and Dane Clark (51) sharing a 99-run partnership for the second wicket. However, the hosts’ relentless bowling, led by Rishad Hasan and Mahedi Hasan, ensured the Kiwis could not capitalize on their strong start. Bangladesh’s chase was a masterclass in precision and aggression. Taufiq Hridoy’s unbeaten 51 off 27 balls, including three sixes and two fours, anchored the innings, while Shami Hasan’s explosive 31 off 13 balls, featuring three sixes and two fours, sealed the victory. The duo’s 82-run partnership for the fourth wicket propelled Bangladesh to 183/2 in 18 overs, completing the chase with two overs to spare. The match was a testament to Bangladesh’s batting depth and tactical discipline. Early partnerships between Saif Hasan (17) and Tanzid Hasan (20) laid the foundation, but the team’s resilience was tested when they lost three quick wickets in the middle overs. Hridoy’s late surge, coupled with Shami’s explosive cameo, turned the tide in favor of the hosts. New Zealand’s bowling struggled to contain the Bangladesh attack, with Matthew Fisher (53 runs from four overs) and Nathan Smith (11 runs from three overs) failing to contain the damage.#new_zealand #bangladesh #chattogram #taufiq_hridoy #shami_hasan
Bangladesh Eye Rare Double-Series Win Over New Zealand in Rainy Dhaka Bangladesh aims to secure a historic double-series victory over New Zealand in the third T20I of their tour, set to take place in Dhaka on May 2, 2026. The match, part of a three-game series, will be played under challenging weather conditions, with forecasts indicating heavy rain. The team’s strategy will be tested as they seek to capitalize on the spin-friendly pitches and unpredictable weather to overcome a New Zealand side that has dominated the series so far. The series has been a mixed bag for Bangladesh, with their middle-order batting lineup facing scrutiny after a poor performance in the third ODI. However, the team showed resilience in the first T20I, where Towhid Hridoy and Parvez Hossain Emon delivered a standout performance in the chase. Hridoy, who struggled in the ODI, scored a quick half-century alongside Parvez, helping Bangladesh secure a crucial win. Shamim Hossain also contributed with a series of aggressive shots, shedding the rust from his two-month layoff. This resurgence in the middle order has positioned Bangladesh as strong contenders for the series, despite the challenges posed by the weather. New Zealand, on the other hand, has been the dominant force in the series, with Ish Sodhi emerging as the standout bowler. Sodhi, who has taken 164 wickets in T20Is, is tied with Tim Southee as New Zealand’s highest wicket-taker in the format. His performance in the first T20I was pivotal, as his expensive third over allowed Bangladesh to mount a comeback. However, the spin-friendly conditions in Dhaka are expected to favor New Zealand’s bowlers, including Sodhi, who will be under pressure to deliver a match-winning performance. Team changes are anticipated for both sides.#new_zealand #ish_sodhi #bangladesh #towhid_hridoy #parvez_hossain_emon
Bangladesh may overtake India in per capita GDP in 2026. Why experts say data is more complex According to April 2026 projections by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Bangladesh’s per capita GDP is expected to edge slightly above India’s in 2026, with estimates placing Bangladesh at $2,911 compared to India’s $2,812. The projection has sparked a debate among economists about the implications of such a crossover, with some emphasizing its symbolic significance and others cautioning against overinterpreting the data. The IMF’s forecast highlights a narrow gap between the two nations’ per capita incomes, but it also underscores the vast disparity in their overall economic scales. India’s total GDP is projected to reach around $4.1 trillion in 2026, while Bangladesh’s is expected to remain at approximately $510 billion. Economists argue that aggregate GDP, growth momentum, and structural diversity are critical indicators that go beyond per capita metrics. For instance, India’s larger population and broader economic base mean its total output far exceeds Bangladesh’s, even if per capita figures temporarily shift. The discussion has intensified after contrasting remarks from two prominent economists. Kaushik Basu, former Chief Economist of the World Bank, expressed concern over the projection, calling it “shocking” given Bangladesh’s recent political and economic instability. He urged India to focus on substantive policy reforms rather than reacting to headlines about per capita income rankings. Basu’s comments were met with rebuttals from Kanwal Sibal, a former Foreign Secretary, who emphasized the need to contextualize per capita data. Sibal argued that per capita income comparisons can be misleading when applied to countries at different stages of development or with varying population sizes.#india #bangladesh #international_monetary_fund #kaushik_basu #kanwal_sibal
IMF projects Bangladesh to overtake India in per capita GDP in 2026 The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) database on April 14, 2026, sparking widespread discussion in financial markets and newsrooms. A key projection from the report is that Bangladesh will surpass India in per capita GDP in 2026, measured in current US dollars. According to the forecast, Bangladesh’s per capita GDP is expected to reach $2,911, compared to India’s projected $2,812. While the gap is narrow in absolute terms, the symbolic significance of this shift has drawn significant attention. India’s economy, valued at $3,916 billion in 2025, is roughly eight times larger than Bangladesh’s $458 billion. Despite its massive size, the smaller neighboring country appears poised to edge ahead in this specific metric. The reaction in India was immediate, with former World Bank chief economist Kaushik Basu calling the development “shocking.” Indian commentators debated whether the projection reflected deeper structural differences between the two economies or merely a statistical anomaly. The answer, as economic data often reveals, is a combination of both factors. When measured in current dollars, Bangladesh led India in per capita income for seven years from 2018. India reclaimed the lead in 2025 after the Bangladeshi taka weakened sharply against the US dollar. This trend is not unprecedented. Between 1989 and 2002, Bangladesh also outperformed India in per capita GDP, only for India to regain the lead for about 15 years before Bangladesh overtook it again in 2018. The subsequent depreciation of the Indian rupee against the dollar then shifted the comparison back in India’s favor. According to the latest projections, Bangladesh is expected to surpass India by approximately $100 per person in 2026.#india #bangladesh #imf #world_economic_outlook #kaushik_basu
India’s Per Capita GDP Estimated Below Bangladesh in 2026: IMF The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Bangladesh’s per capita gross domestic product (GDP) will surpass India’s in 2026, according to its April 2026 World Economic Outlook report. The data reveals that Bangladesh’s per capita GDP at current prices is estimated at $2,911, compared to India’s $2,812. This marks a reversal of trends observed in previous years, as India had maintained a marginal edge over Bangladesh in 2025, with per capita GDP figures of $2,675 and $2,635 respectively. However, Bangladesh had previously outpaced India in 2023 and 2024, according to the IMF’s analysis. The IMF’s projections indicate that Bangladesh’s per capita GDP is expected to rise to $3,048 by 2027, while India’s is forecast to reach $3,074. Despite this, the organization notes that India is projected to maintain a lead over Bangladesh in per capita GDP until at least 2031. Meanwhile, India’s overall GDP for 2026 is estimated at $4.1 trillion, significantly higher than Bangladesh’s $510 billion. Per capita GDP, a key indicator of economic performance, measures a country’s economic output per person. The IMF highlights that the average per capita GDP in emerging markets and developing economies stands at approximately $7,500, while the global average is around $15,600. The report underscores the uneven development between nations, with India and Bangladesh remaining among the lower-income economies despite their large populations and economic potential. The IMF’s outlook also addresses broader global economic challenges. It warns that the war in West Asia poses a significant threat to global growth, disrupting commodity markets, inflation expectations, and financial conditions. The organization notes that while global growth is projected to slow to 3.#india #bangladesh #west_asia #imf #world_economic_outlook
Bangladesh Captain Emphasizes Batting-Friendly Conditions Ahead of ICC Women's T20 World Cup Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana has highlighted the importance of batting-friendly conditions as the team prepares for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, with the first leg of their buildup set against Sri Lanka in a three-match ODI series followed by a three-match T20I series. The series begins on April 19 in Rajshahi, where Sultana expressed her hope for high-scoring matches that could engage fans and showcase the potential of the venue. "Since we are preparing for major tournaments, we wanted a good batting wicket where the batters can play freely and score runs," she said ahead of the opening game. Sultana also praised the Rajshahi Divisional Stadium, stating that its surface is particularly conducive to scoring runs and encouraging competitive play. The Bangladesh skipper emphasized the need for matches to be hosted beyond Dhaka, stating, "We can't keep everything Dhaka-centric. If we give importance to grounds outside the capital and host matches here, people involved in the game will feel more encouraged." This focus on expanding cricket's reach aligns with the team's broader strategy to fine-tune their approach ahead of the World Cup, with conditions, venues, and overall tactics forming critical components of their preparation. Sri Lanka, coached by Jamie Siddons, arrived in Bangladesh on Friday for their first bilateral series in the country. The series marks a significant step in Bangladesh's efforts to adapt to tournament conditions and refine their strategies. Sultana's comments underscore the team's commitment to creating an environment where batters can thrive, ensuring both competitive matches and fan engagement.#sri_lanka #bangladesh #icc_women_s_t20_world_cup #nigar_sultana #rajshahi_divisional_stadium
Mehidy: We cannot see New Zealand as a weak side Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz emphasized that his team would not underestimate New Zealand despite the latter’s under-strength squad, while New Zealand’s Tom Latham highlighted his players’ domestic experience as a key factor in their approach to the upcoming three-match ODI series. Both leaders spoke ahead of the series opener, outlining their strategies and reflecting on their respective roles in the team’s development. Mehidy, who has led Bangladesh to two consecutive ODI series victories, stressed the importance of the upcoming match against New Zealand. “We cannot see New Zealand as a weak side,” he said. “We will try our hardest to get the result in our favour. For professional cricketers, every game is important; the chance to earn ranking points also gives it a little more importance. Winning the series against New Zealand would be a big achievement for us. I think the Bangladesh team is in good shape. The last two series wins also showed that we are bonding well as a team.” Latham, who has faced recent challenges in his career, focused on ensuring his players bring their domestic expertise to the series. He noted that while the New Zealand squad includes less-experienced players, they have prior exposure to international cricket. “I think the goal for us is for everyone to bring their own skill. We have a blueprint and a style that we like to play with, but we want guys to come in and play the way that they’ve played for their domestic sides back home in New Zealand. We know if they do that, then they’ll give themselves the best opportunity,” he said. Latham added that the New Zealand squad’s familiarity with international cricket, even if some players have limited match experience, would be an advantage.#new_zealand #bangladesh #taskin_ahmed #mehidy_hasan_miraz #tom_latham
