Shoaib Akhtar to Mentor Bangladesh Bowlers Ahead of BPL 2025–26

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has arrived in Dhaka to begin his role as mentor for Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League 2025–26. During his visit, Akhtar also backed Bangladesh as serious contenders for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

Shoaib Akhtar is in Dhaka ahead of the 12th edition of the Bangladesh Premier League. He landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on December 14, 2025. Dhaka Capitals officials and fans welcomed him on arrival. The BPL season begins on December 26.

This is Shoaib Akhtar’s first official role as a mentor in a T20 franchise. Dhaka Capitals hired him to build discipline and push a winning mindset inside the squad. Akhtar has stayed active since landing. He has joined team dinners, fan events, and sponsor promotions. He will remain in Bangladesh through the tournament’s opening phase.

Shoaib Akhtar Focuses on Young Fast Bowlers

Shoaib Akhtar has made youth development his top priority. He wants to help young Bangladeshi pacers understand pace, workload, and recovery. He has spoken openly about sharing training routines that reduce injury risk while bowling fast.

Akhtar praised Bangladesh’s current pace unit. He highlighted Taskin Ahmed and joked about wanting him to break his speed record. He also singled out Nahid Rana as the fastest emerging bowler. Akhtar said he is ready to guide Rana on handling physical pressure at high speeds.

Shoaib Akhtar Backs Bangladesh for T20 World Cup 2026

Speaking to reporters in Dhaka on December 16, Shoaib Akhtar backed Bangladesh for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. He said the team can climb the rankings and challenge top sides. He also praised bowling coach Shaun Tait for his direct approach and honesty.

Bangladesh recently beat Ireland 2–1 in a T20I series. In the 2026 T20 World Cup, they will play in Group B with England, West Indies, Nepal, and Italy. Bangladesh open their campaign against West Indies on February 7 in Kolkata.