Bangladesh announced a strong 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series. Pakistanwill take place in Dhaka from March 11. The squad has a notable return of versatile athletes. Afif Huseynwho returned to the ODI setup after an absence of over a year. led Mehidi Hasan MirazBangladesh will look to make the most of their home conditions when they face Pakistan in what promises to be a competitive bilateral contest.
Afif Hossain returns to the much awaited ODI setup
The most talked about part of the squad announcement is the return of Afif, who last represented Bangladesh in ODIs in December 2024. The left-handed and handy off-spin option had been out of the national set-up for quite some time but has now got another opportunity after back-to-back performances in domestic cricket.
The inclusion of Afif strengthens Bangladesh’s middle order, giving the team more agility with both bat and ball. The 25-year-old, who is known for his ability to accelerate the scoring rate during the medium overs, could play a key role against Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Despite concerns over form, the core batting unit was retained
Bangladesh have largely retained their core batting line-up from their previous ODI assignment against West Indies in October 2025. Lytton Daswho have struggled to produce big scores in the format in recent times, are still supported by the selectors. The team management seems to believe in the experienced player’s ability to rediscover his rhythm.
Najmul Huseyn Shanto and Tawhid Hridoy While the batting lineup remains important components Soumya Sarkar and Seif Hasan provide additional options at the top of the order. Young key Tanzid Hasan Bangladesh is also holding its ground as it continues to invest in emerging talent.
Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan also retained his place in the previous squad, indicating the selectors’ intent to maintain stability in the mid-table setup.
Injury setbacks rule out key players
Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be without several players due to injuries and selection decisions. Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud currently recovering from a tennis elbow problem Edited by Hasan Sakib He was sidelined with a back injury. Both players are expected to be fully ready by the end of the month.
Meanwhile, Nurul Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik and Shamim Huseyn not included in the squad. Their absence opens the door for others to step up and make an impact during the series.
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A bowling attack led by Tashkin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman
Will lead Bangladesh’s pace attack Tashkin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahmantwo of the side’s most experienced bowlers in the format. will be supported by Transparent Islam and increased tempo Nahid Ranaprovides homeowners with multiple sewing options.
Spin will continue to be a key weapon on Dhaka’s slow surfaces. captain Mehidi Hasan Miraz will also lead the spin department Rishad Hussain and Tanveer IslamGives Bangladesh a balanced bowling line-up to suit their home conditions.
All three matches of the ODI series will be played at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The opening match will be played on March 11, followed by the second ODI on March 13 and the final on March 15.
Bangladesh ODI squad for Pakistan series: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Afif Hossain, Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Islam, Nahid Islam, Nahid Shoriful.
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