Bangladesh’s Fastest Bowler Nahid Rana Ready for Champions Trophy Challenge Against India

As Bangladesh prepares for their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against India, all eyes are on 22-year-old pacer Nahid Rana, who has emerged as one of the fastest bowlers in world cricket and the quickest ever from his country. Capable of consistently clocking speeds over 150 km/h, Nahid has already made a name for himself with his raw pace and attacking approach.

Despite his rapid rise, Nahid’s journey to international cricket was unconventional. Growing up in Chapainawabganj, a district more famous for mangoes than cricket, he spent his early years playing taped tennis ball cricket in Rajshahi. It was only in his late teens that he transitioned to hard-ball cricket after being encouraged by former national pacer Alamgir Kabir, who recognized his natural ability.

Since making his Test debut against Sri Lanka in March 2024, Nahid has impressed with his sheer pace. He took three wickets in his maiden innings and later played a crucial role in Bangladesh’s historic 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan in Rawalpindi, where he dismissed top batters Babar Azam, Shan Masood, and Saud Shakeel in three consecutive overs. Now, as Bangladesh returns to Pakistan for their Group A matches against the hosts and New Zealand, Nahid hopes to continue his impact.

Nahid acknowledged the challenges of bowling on batting-friendly pitches but remains focused on execution. “We played on pitches that were very good for batting, and the margins for fast bowlers were small. Despite that, we adjusted well and bowled exceptionally as a fast-bowling group. The pitches could be even better for the Champions Trophy, so we need to focus on executing our plans properly,” he said.

His international record so far includes 20 wickets in six Tests at an average of over 36 and four wickets in three ODIs at an average of 31.50. But beyond the numbers, it is his ability to generate express pace that makes him a standout prospect for Bangladesh.

With Jofra Archer and Kagiso Rabada among the quickest bowlers in the tournament, Nahid is expected to be in elite company. However, he insists he is not chasing speed records. “I would rather concentrate on getting into the right rhythm and my release. I have learned that looking after your body and staying fit is the key to bowling quick. If I feel good, then I know the pace will be right. But then again, when you see or hear that the pace is around 150kph, that’s a nice feeling,” he said.

The young fast bowler credits experienced teammates like Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Hasan Mahmud for guiding him as he navigates international cricket. He also values the lessons he has learned off the field, including fitness, diet, and executing game plans at the highest level. “The team expected me to bowl fast and used me as an attacking option. I tried to repay their faith by sticking to my strengths and staying humble,” he added.

Away from cricket, Nahid enjoys riding his motorbike, fishing, and spending time with his pet cats—though his busy schedule now leaves little time for these pastimes. “Nowadays, any time off from cricket is spent catching up with friends and family. I love riding my motorbike when I am home in Chapainawabganj, but I hardly get the time to visit these days because the cricket calendar is so hectic,” he said.

As he gears up for his first ICC global event, Nahid views the tournament as a major opportunity. “The chance to play against the best cricketers in the world is the highest form of inspiration. Things have happened very fast, but I am grateful for everything,” he said. “International cricket is a different level altogether, and I learn every day on and off the field.”