Cricket fans are in for a treat as Afghanistan prepares to clash with Bangladesh in a three-match One-Day International (ODI) series next month. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates, these matches promise to be nail-biters, despite Afghanistan’s key players being sidelined by injuries.
Squad Adjustments and New Faces
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced a 19-member squad, captained by Hashmatullah Shahidi with Rahmat Shah as vice-captain. However, the team faces challenges with Ibrahim Zadran recovering from ankle surgery and spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman nursing a right phalanx sprain.
To fill Zadran’s shoes, uncapped batter Sediqullah Atal has been called up. Atal has already turned heads in T20 internationals and shone brightly in the ACC Men’s Emerging Asia Cup, amassing 230 runs in just three innings at an average of 115.
While many familiar faces from the South Africa series remain, left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad returns after missing the previous series. Chief Selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil expressed optimism about Noor Ahmad’s return and Atal’s potential to make a significant impact.
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Looking Ahead to the ICC Champions Trophy
As Afghanistan gears up for this critical series, the focus extends beyond these matches to the ICC Champions Trophy. ACB CEO Naseeb Khan emphasised the importance of ODI cricket in preparing for this prestigious tournament. “The year 2024 has been significant for Afghan cricket, especially in white-ball formats,” Khan remarked. He expressed confidence in the selected squad’s ability to perform exceptionally well against Bangladesh, known for their competitive edge.
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The series kicks off at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on November 6, with subsequent matches on November 9 and 11. Afghanistan has a mixed record against Bangladesh, winning six out of their 16 ODI encounters so far.
