ODI cricket has long been Bangladesh’s forte, especially in subcontinental conditions. Their prowess in this format has often posed a threat to opponents. Yet, their first game in the ongoing campaign of the Asia Cup against a depleted Sri Lankan bowling attack left many stunned.
The tournament’s unforgiving nature dictates that a single loss could push a team to the brink of elimination, and Bangladesh now finds itself in precisely that precarious situation.
A defeat against Afghanistan on Sunday, September 3, would spell the end of their Asia Cup journey, casting a shadow over their preparations for the World Cup next month.
The primary concern for Bangladesh is their batting. Sri Lanka’s spinners effectively dismantled the Bangladesh top order, and Matheesha Pathirana took over from the halfway mark.
Recent international games held in Lahore suggest that batting might not be any easier this time around for the men in green. To add to their woes, they will be facing a formidable spin trio.
However, Bangladesh can draw some comfort from their recent history against Afghanistan. When hosting Afghanistan in July, Bangladesh emerged victorious in their last three encounters.
Nevertheless, Afghanistan managed to win the ODI series, showcasing the progress they’ve made on the international stage. Notably, few teams have managed to topple Bangladesh in their own territory.
Despite their recent 3-0 loss to Pakistan, a win in this crucial encounter would help them regain their confidence and secure a place in the next round of the Asia Cup.
Match Details:
- Fixture: Bangladesh vs. Afghanistan
- Date: September 3, 2023
- Time: 14:30 local time, 15:00 IST
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Weather: Expect warm weather with no rain interruptions.
Team News:
Bangladesh
Despite their lacklustre batting performance, Bangladesh is unlikely to make significant changes for this crucial fixture. One interesting decision might be whether Anamul Haque replaces Tanzid Hasan, who had a disappointing debut with a duck.
Probable XI: Shakib Al Hasan (c), Tanzid Hasan/Anamul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mohammad Naim, Shoriful Islam, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Towhid Hridoy, Mustafizur Rahman, Mahedi Hasan
Afghanistan
The Afghanistan side appears to be relatively settled as well. The only decision to be made is regarding the third pacer.
Probable XI: Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi, Mohammad Saleem Safi, Rahmat Shah, Rashid Khan, Ibrahim Zadran, Gulbadin Naib/Karim Janat, Najibullah Zadran
In a high-stakes clash, Bangladesh finds itself at a crossroads, needing a victory to keep their Asia Cup hopes alive. The cricketing world eagerly awaits the outcome of this do-or-die encounter.