As Afghanistan prepares to host Bangladesh in a three-match ODI series in Sharjah this week, both teams are gearing up for their respective journeys toward the Champions Trophy early next year. However, the contrasting recent performances and the familiar conditions in Sharjah heavily favor the Afghans. Here’s an in-depth look at what to expect from this encounter.
Afghanistan’s Advantage in Familiar Conditions
The recent form indicates that Afghanistan heads into this series with considerable momentum. Having secured their first bilateral ODI series victory against South Africa in September, Afghanistan will look to capitalize on their home-ground advantage in Sharjah, a venue that has become something of an unofficial home for the team over the years.
In stark contrast, Bangladesh enters this series burdened with low confidence following a disappointing performance against South Africa at home. The Tigers suffered comprehensive defeats in both Tests held in Dhaka and Chattogram, raising questions about their current form.
Compounding their challenges, Bangladesh will return to ODIs in Sharjah for the first time in 29 years. Their last appearance at this venue was during the 1995 Asia Cup, and their only experience in T20s there culminated in a defeat to Afghanistan in the 2022 Asia Cup. This lack of familiarity with the conditions could put them at a disadvantage.
New Faces for Afghanistan
Afghanistan’s selection for this series features some promising talent. The team has brought in opening batter Sediqullah Atal and left-arm wrist spinner Noor Ahmad, replacing injured players Ibrahim Zadran (ankle) and Mujeeb Ur Rahman (hand). Atal, who made a name for himself in the recent Asia Cup for emerging teams, was the highest scorer, delivering three quick fifties.
In addition, 20-year-old uncapped fast bowler Bilal Sami is another intriguing addition. Sami effectively utilized the short ball during recent matches against Sri Lanka A, showcasing his potential.
Afghanistan’s established stars are also critical to their strategy. Noor Ahmad recently claimed the Player of the Tournament title in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) with 22 wickets, while star pacer Fazalhaq Farooqi remains a significant threat after his outstanding performance in last year’s ODI series against Bangladesh, where he took eight wickets in three matches. Additionally, the young off-spinner AM Ghazanfar, who performed well against South Africa, could further bolster Afghanistan’s bowling attack.
Bangladesh’s Challenge: Off-Field Issues and Team Changes
For Bangladesh, the road to Sharjah has been tumultuous. A host of injuries and off-field issues have forced significant changes to their ODI squad. Notably, Shakib Al Hasan has opted out of the series, while Litton Das is sidelined due to illness and Tanzim Hasan is recovering from a shoulder injury.
In their place, Bangladesh has included Nahid Rana, who gained attention for his performance during the Test series in Pakistan, along with Zakir Hasan and Nasum Ahmed. The bowling lineup still looks formidable with the inclusion of Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Shoriful Islam, providing a solid fast-bowling attack. Rana’s speed and skill will be closely monitored as he transitions into ODI cricket.
Navigating Off-Field Turmoil
Bangladesh’s lead-up to this series has not been straightforward, with leadership and coaching situations in disarray. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto faces uncertainty after expressing his desire to step down following the Test series against South Africa. Compounding matters, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has experienced upheaval with coach Chandika Hathurusinghe suspended and subsequently sacked, while Phil Simmons has stepped in as interim coach.
Shakib Al Hasan’s decision to not travel for the South Africa series due to security concerns has also added to the turmoil. The team struggled to focus during the South Africa series amid these controversies, and they must find a way to put these distractions behind them as they approach the series against Afghanistan.
Looking Ahead
The series between Afghanistan and Bangladesh presents a crucial opportunity for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy. For Afghanistan, the series is an opportunity to build on their recent successes and solidify their standing in ODI cricket. Conversely, Bangladesh must navigate its internal challenges and regain its confidence in the field.
As the matches unfold in Sharjah, all eyes will be on how both teams adapt to the conditions and respond to the mounting pressure. The outcome will not only shape their preparations for the Champions Trophy but also set the tone for their cricketing futures. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Bangladesh can overcome its recent struggles and if Afghanistan can leverage its familiar surroundings to secure a series victory.