Bangladesh have announced a strong 15-man squad for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan. Led by Tamim Iqbal, the team will look to continue their winning momentum from the recent series against Ireland.
The return of star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is a significant boost for the Bangladesh squad. The 36-year-old missed the one-off Test against Afghanistan at the Sher-e-Bangla in Mirpur due to a finger injury he sustained during the ODI series against Ireland in May.
Additionally, the inclusion of opener Mohammad Naim, middle-order batsman Afif Hossain and fast bowler Taskin Ahmed will add depth and versatility to the team.
Naim last played an ODI in May 2021 and has been given another chance to show off his talent on the international stage. His arrival will provide much-needed depth to the Bangladesh batting order.
The return of Hossain, who was dropped earlier this year, will strengthen the middle order. He is a solid technically sound batsman who can stitch partnerships and accelerate the run rate when needed. Meanwhile, Taskin returned to international cricket through the just concluded Test series against Afghanistan. He picked up his career-best 4-37 in the second innings to set-up a record win on Saturday (June 17).
The ODI series is set to begin on July 5. It will be an exciting opportunity for Bangladesh to continue their winning streak and put on a strong display against Afghanistan. The matches being day-night affairs will add an extra dimension to the series. The Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chattogram will host all three matches, providing a familiar and supportive home ground advantage for the Bangladesh team.
Bangladesh squad:
Tamim Iqbal (c), Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim(wk), Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Afif Hossain, Mohammad Naim.
The three-match ODI series will be followed by a two-game T20I series.
