The Bangladesh cricket team has departed for the UAE to participate in a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, marking their return to ODI play since March. The series is a preparatory ground for the ICC Champions Trophy and features a mix of players from recent matches, reflecting the team’s historical advantage in ODIs against Afghanistan.
The Bangladesh national cricket team has commenced their journey to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan. Departing Dhaka on November 2, 2024, the squad is comprised of players who were not involved in the recent Test series against South Africa. Notable members of this group include Soumya Sarkar, Jaker Ali Anik, Towhid Hridoy, Rishad Hossain, and Tanzid Hasan Tamim. Meanwhile, those who participated in the Test series are scheduled to depart tomorrow. This upcoming series is particularly significant as it serves as a preparatory ground for the ICC Champions Trophy slated for the following year. It also marks Bangladesh’s first ODI series since their encounter against Sri Lanka in March, following which the team primarily engaged in T20 and Test matches. Despite a disappointing performance in T20 formats, the team found success with a historic Test series victory over Pakistan; however, they faced challenges during their subsequent series against India and South Africa. Afghanistan has recently emerged as a formidable opponent for Bangladesh; however, the Tigers hold a historical advantage with ten victories compared to six defeats in their 16 ODI encounters. The matches against Afghanistan are set to take place on November 6, 9, and 11, all at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. Following this series, Bangladesh is scheduled to tour the West Indies for a comprehensive bilateral series covering all three formats of the game. The squad for the series includes: Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Zakir Hasan, Nazmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Vice Captain), Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, and Nahid Rana.
The upcoming ODI series between Bangladesh and Afghanistan is notable for its strategic importance as it precedes the ICC Champions Trophy. This encounter also represents Bangladesh’s first foray into ODIs after a period dominated by T20 and Test formats, underlining the team’s need to rejuvenate its ODI dynamics. Additionally, Afghanistan’s growing prowess in cricket adds a layer of competitiveness to the matches, further emphasizing the significance of the series.
In conclusion, the Bangladesh team is poised to engage in a crucial ODI series against Afghanistan in the UAE, which will serve as a platform for preparation ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. The team’s historical advantage over Afghanistan, coupled with recent performances, will be key factors as they aim to transition successfully back into the ODI format. The match results could be pivotal in shaping their strategies for upcoming international competitions, including a full series against the West Indies.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
