The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) officially announced the squad for the highly anticipated ODI series against AfghanistanIt is planned to take place in the United Arab Emirates. The three-match series will begin on November 6 at the famous Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Najmul Hossain Shanto remains captain after discussions with BCB
Najmul Huseyn Shanto‘s captaincy has been the subject of much speculation as the left-handed batsman recently hinted at stepping down due to uncertainty over his readiness for a leadership role. However, after a decisive discussion with the BCB president Farooq AhmedShanto agreed to continue leading the team in the ODI format. Sources indicate that while Shanto remains the captain for this series, a potential change of leadership roles for Bangladesh’s other formats could be on the horizon.
New additions to the squad and major omissions
The squad sees some significant changes, with both new faces and experienced players missing out. One notable inclusion is the uncapped fast bowler Nahid Ranaearned its place after a promising domestic performance. His selection brings fresh energy to the team’s pace attack, filling the void left by other top-order bowlers.
On the other hand, Lytton Dasthe outstanding wicketkeeper-batsman will not be a part of the series as he is still recovering from an illness. Another non-prominent one is the pacer Tanzim ShakibHe was sidelined due to a shoulder injury. Veteran players like it Anamul Haque, Taijul Islamand Hasan Mahmud they were also removed from the squad, signaling a transition to new players.
There are those returning to the team Zakir Hasan and Nasum Ahmedwho have shown consistency in recent matches and will be key assets of the series. Their return is an opportunity to further strengthen Bangladesh’s spin department and middle order.
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Shakib Al Hasan withdraws due to lack of preparation
Surprising twist, all round Shakib Al HasanHe initially opted out of the ODI series where he was expected to join the team. BCB president Farooq Ahmed Shakib revealed that he was not ready for the intensity of the series after missing the last Test match against South Africa due to security and personal frustrations, as he was not fully trained. Shakib reportedly said that playing in the series without adequate training may not be beneficial for him or the team.
“When Shakib missed the last Test (against South Africa), it affected him a lot. He wasn’t training as usual. “As a professional, Shakib thought it would not be fair to represent the country without proper preparation.” Faruque made a statement to the media on Chattogram.
Bangladesh squad for Afghanistan ODIs
Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Zakir Hasan, Nazmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hassan Miraz (vice-captain), Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Ramanh , Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.
Schedule and venue details
The first of the three ODIs between Bangladesh and Afghanistan will begin on November 6 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The series promises to be an exciting battle with both teams eager to make their mark on the international stage.
