The first ODI match between Bangladesh and Afghanistan took place on November 6, 2024, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, UAE. This match was crucial for both teams as they aimed to improve their standings in the ICC ODI rankings.
Team Overviews
Bangladesh entered the series with a balanced squad, focusing on both experienced players and young talents. Afghanistan, known for their strong spin attack, looked to capitalize on the conditions in Sharjah, which often favour spin bowlers.
Key Players
Bangladesh:
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (C): The captain and a key player in the batting lineup.
- Shakib Al Hasan: An experienced all-rounder capable of making significant contributions with both bat and ball.
- Mustafizur Rahman: A left-arm pacer known for his variations and death bowling skills.
Afghanistan:
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (C): The captain and a reliable middle-order batsman.
- Rashid Khan: A world-class leg-spinner who can turn the game with his magical deliveries.
- Mohammad Nabi: An experienced all-rounder providing balance to the team.
Head-to-Head in ODIs
- Total Matches: 16
- Bangladesh Wins: 10
- Afghanistan Wins: 6
- No Results: 0
Probable Playing XI (Latest Squad and Captains)
Bangladesh:
- Tamim Iqbal
- Liton Das (WK)
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (C)
- Shakib Al Hasan
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Mahmudullah
- Afif Hossain
- Mahedi Hasan
- Taskin Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Shoriful Islam
Afghanistan:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK)
- Ibrahim Zadran
- Hashmatullah Shahidi (C)
- Najibullah Zadran
- Mohammad Nabi
- Gulbadin Naib
- Rashid Khan
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
- Naveen-ul-Haq
- Fazalhaq Farooqi
- Qais Ahmad
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report
The Sharjah Cricket Stadium pitch is known for its slow and low bounce, making it challenging for batters to play freely. The surface often favours spin bowlers, making it a crucial aspect of the game. Spinners are expected to play a significant role in controlling the flow of runs.
Match Scenarios
First Innings: Bangladesh, batting first, aimed to post a competitive total on the board. The team got off to a steady start, and Tamim Iqbal and Liton Das built a solid foundation. However, Afghanistan’s spin duo of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman applied pressure in the middle overs, restricting the scoring rate. Despite a late surge by Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah, Bangladesh managed to post a total of 245/7 in their 50 overs.
Second Innings: In response, Afghanistan’s chase got off to a shaky start, with early wickets falling due to some excellent bowling by Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed. However, captain Hashmatullah Shahidi and Mohammad Nabi stabilized the innings with a crucial partnership. Rashid Khan’s late cameo ensured Afghanistan reached the target with three wickets in hand and two overs to spare, finishing at 248/7.
Match Predictions
Given the conditions in Sharjah and the strength of both teams, it was anticipated to be a closely contested match. Bangladesh’s batting depth and Afghanistan’s spin prowess were expected to be the key factors.
