Bangladesh's experienced midfielder Sohel Rana praised Hamza Choudhury, who plays for Sheffield United in the English Premier League, for quickly adjusting to the national team after just one practice session on Wednesday at the Bashundhara Kings Arena.

Sohel made these remarks before the team's departure for India this morning. Bangladesh will begin their Asian Cup Qualifying campaign against hosts India on March 25 in Shillong.

"Hamza has adapted to the team very quickly -- it feels like he has been playing with us for a long time. That's a positive sign because the sooner we, the local players, can adapt to Hamza, the better it is for the team," Sohel said at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

"The atmosphere in the dressing room was great with Hamza's presence. He is very humble and has integrated well as a team member, which is a great sign. Despite being an English Premier League player, he has no ego -- he is a good person and never ignores us. I think every player should have the qualities that Hamza has," Sohel added, noting that Hamza's presence has strengthened team bonding.

The Bashundhara Kings midfielder also stated that this is a "new Bangladesh" team, determined to play for victory against India and dedicate their success to Hamza.

"We want to play against India as a new Bangladesh, especially with Hamza's inclusion. Our goal is to start the qualifiers with a win and dedicate it to him," Sohel said. "His addition has given us extra strength, and we believe we can achieve a good result against India."

With Hamza's arrival, Sohel's place in the starting eleven remains uncertain. However, Sohel welcomed such competition.

"This competition among the midfielders is healthy -- it makes the team more competitive. It's a good sign, and I believe every position should have this kind of competition for the overall betterment of the team," he remarked.

Sohel also emphasised that the local players are working hard to adapt to Hamza's playing style while ensuring they execute head coach Javier Cabrera's plans effectively.

"We always play according to the coach's strategy, and I believe Hamza will do the same. Football has a universal language that every player understands. I'm confident we will all align with the coach's plan," said Sohel, who believes Hamza's arrival marks a turning point for Bangladesh football.

"This is a positive development -- it feels like the beginning of a new era for our football with Hamza's inclusion. His presence will inspire the younger generation, and I believe the future of Bangladesh football looks bright," he added.

Meanwhile, Spanish coach Javier Cabrera has selected a 24-man squad for the match against India, leaving out Piash Ahmed Nova, Arif Hossain, and Taj Uddin. Forward Al Amin and Hamza Choudhury are the new faces in the squad.