Bangladesh and Afghanistan are set to begin a three-match T20 International series in Sharjah on today (Oct 2), a few days after the Tigers defeated Afghanistan in the Asia Cup to secure a place in the Super Four stage. 

The first match will start at 9 pm Bangladesh time.

Historically, the two sides have met 13 times in T20 cricket, with Afghanistan winning seven matches and Bangladesh six. 

Recent form, however, favors the Tigers, who have lost only once in their last four encounters, including a clean sweep of Afghanistan in the most recent bilateral series in Sylhet. 

Bangladesh will aim to maintain that momentum and level the overall head-to-head record.

Bangladesh’s interim captain, Zakir Ali, emphasized the team’s focus on improving batting performances after struggling in the Asia Cup. He acknowledged the absence of senior batsman Liton Das during the continental tournament but expressed confidence that the younger players can step up. With stalwarts like Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah Riad unavailable, the squad is heavily reliant on youth.

Afghanistan, by contrast, boasts a balanced mix of experience and talent, led by Rashid Khan and featuring strong performers such as Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Ibrahim Zadran, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz. 

Analysts expect a closely contested series, offering both sides a valuable opportunity to fine-tune preparations ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.

Bangladesh’s probable XI includes Zakir Ali (captain), Nurul Hasan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Tauhid Hridoy, Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Mehedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib. 

Afghanistan’s likely lineup features Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Mohammad Ishaq, Sadiqullah Atal, Ibrahim Zadran, Rashid Khan (captain), Sharafuddin Ashraf, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Farid Malik, and Noor Ahmad.

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