Bangladesh has announced a squad of 17 members for the Asia Cup. Opener Saif Hassan is on the standby list even though he is not in the main squad.

Basically, Saif is being prepared as an alternative cricketer if someone from the World Cup or Asia Cup squad gets injured suddenly or is unable to play due to some other problem. Cricketers are sharpening their skill technique in practice. Saif himself has said that he will try to improve. The 24-year-old batter has also worked with head coach Chandika Hathurusingha.

While talking to the media at BCB's media plaza today, Saif said, “There has been a conversation (with Hathurusingha). The last few days I was in practice, talked (to him). Keep the intensity of practice high, that was the message.”

Saif is preparing himself for the big tournament, “I think this (9 cricketers training with Saif) is a backup plan. We have separate exercises for those who are on standby and those who are in the plan for the World Cup. So that everyone is ready when the opportunity arises later. I think the intensity of practice should match that of the national team. And to improve those who have deficiencies. All the cricketers in the squad have played in the World Cup, such big tournaments. Everyone is used to it. Everyone can take good care of themselves and do their best.”

The Asia Cup will start from August 30. The ODI World Cup will be held in India on October 5.