Emon set for No.4 role; no Jaker Ali, Najmul Hossain for T20 World Cup

Parvez Hossain Emon is set to bat at No.4 in the upcoming T20 World Cup as selectors prepared a 15-member squad.

Jaker Ali failed to retain his place following poor form, while Test skipper Najmul Hossain could not make a comeback despite strong performances in the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Najmul is currently the highest scorer in the BPL, with 203 runs in four games at an average of 67.67.

The Bangladesh team management requested BPL franchise Sylhet Titans to demote opener Emon to number four to assess him in a new role. Emon has scored 169 runs at an average of 84.50 in the position.

"I will have to adapt wherever I play," Emon said. "It is challenging, but I am enjoying it. For me, the team comes first."

Emon made an unbeaten 33 batting at No.4 in the series-deciding third T20I against Ireland.

A selection panel member said, "With him at four, we are more balanced as he provides a vital left-handed option. He also possesses the game to shine at number four, being comfortable against slow bowlers."

Captain Litton Das said he was pleased with how Emon batted at number four in the final game against Ireland. "We tested him at four, and I think he acquitted himself excellently," Litton added.

Regarding Najmul and Jaker, the team management stated they did not want to include Najmul only to have him on the bench, while Jaker's form was not considered good enough.

Shamim Hossain, who was left out of the opening two T20Is against Ireland, retained his place and is expected to fill the finisher's role.

The BCB finalized the squad on December 31. A team official said the squad is unlikely to change unless something unexpected happens in the BPL, with changes permitted until January 20.

Selectors opted for an extra batter over a fast bowler, with Bangladesh set to play all group matches in India. The squad largely features players who have been regulars over the past six months.