The build-up to the Bangladesh–India encounter has centred less around tactics and more around one burning question: Will Jamal Bhuiyan feature in the starting line-up? For a player who has served his country for more than a decade, the uncertainty has been both unusual and uncomfortable. And it all stems from the first-leg tie in Shillong, where, despite appearing at the pre-match press briefing, Jamal was unexpectedly dropped from the starting XI. The captain’s armband was handed to Topu Barman instead, signalling a possible shift in Cabrera’s tactical philosophy.
His omission continued through the matches against Singapore and Hong Kong at home. Cabrera didn’t even use him as a late substitute. The only exception came in the away fixture against Hong Kong, where he finally earned a few minutes on the pitch. The message from the coaching staff has been clear: Jamal is no longer an automatic starter.
The midfielder, however, has chosen diplomacy over controversy. “Of course I want to play,” he said. “But that’s the coach’s decision.” Despite being benched repeatedly, he remains optimistic about Bangladesh’s prospects. With Hamza Choudhury and Shamit Som now anchoring the midfield, Jamal believes the squad is “stronger than India on home soil.”
At 35, Jamal is no longer the engine he once was, but his leadership and composure remain invaluable. Cabrera has experimented with him in various midfield roles, though without a consistent plan. As it stands, Bangladesh’s probable XI includes Mitul Marma in goal, a four-man defence of Tariq, Topu, Saad and Zayan, while Hamza, Shamit, Sohel Rana and Faisal Fahim form the midfield core. Rakib Hossain is set to spearhead the attack.
Still, experience often proves vital in emotionally charged fixtures like this. Jamal’s 92 caps, including six appearances against India, bring a depth of understanding no other player in the squad possesses. Bangladesh failed to win any of those six games, but the captain senses that this match could finally break the pattern. “This is the strongest Bangladesh squad in years. We must seize the opportunity,” he said.
Looking at Bangladesh’s stuttering form—just one win in seven matches this year—the importance of victory cannot be overstated. The team faces a long break after this fixture, and Jamal knows how crucial a positive result will be in rebuilding confidence.
Defensive instability remains a concern, but Jamal believes India’s high defensive line could work in Bangladesh’s favour. “If India push too far forward, Rakib will have space. And if there’s space, he will hurt them,” Jamal observed, highlighting the winger’s blistering pace.
Tonight, whether he starts or comes on as an impact substitute, Jamal Bhuiyan remains a central figure—for the team, for the supporters, and for the narrative of this emotionally charged derby.