The Bangladesh Cricket Board has officially unveiled its 16-member One Day International (ODI) squad for the highly anticipated three-match series against Afghanistan. Set to take place in Abu Dhabi later this month, the squad announcement carries a significant headline: the inclusion of rising star Saif Hasan, marking his maiden call-up to the ODI setup. This elevation is a clear nod to his consistent and impressive performances in recent domestic and T20 international fixtures, underscoring the selectors` confidence in his capabilities to bolster the team`s top order.
This pivotal roster update, however, comes with its own set of challenges, most notably the absence of seasoned opener Litton Das. A consistent performer and a cornerstone of Bangladesh`s white-ball batting, Das will miss the series as he continues his recovery from a side strain. Parvez Hossain Emon has also been omitted from this particular selection, paving the way for fresh talent and tactical adjustments within the squad.
A BCB statement confirmed the rationale behind these changes, emphasizing Saif Hasan’s earned opportunity. The 26-year-old right-hander has demonstrated a compelling mix of technique and temperament, making a strong case for his inclusion. His presence is anticipated to provide valuable depth and stability at the top of the batting lineup, crucial attributes for a series against a formidable Afghanistan side known for its potent bowling attack.
While the core of the squad largely mirrors the team that recently competed in the ODI series against Sri Lanka, the practicalities of international cricket present their own unique hurdles. A contingent of five key players – captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Hasan Mahmud, Tanvir Islam, and Nahid Rana – are already en route or have joined their teammates in the UAE. This initial group forms the vanguard, setting the stage for the series.
However, the journey for some players is proving to be a bureaucratic gauntlet rather than a straightforward flight. Left-handed opener Md Naim Sheikh, alongside Soumya Sarkar (who is part of the T20I squad currently engaged with Afghanistan), finds himself in the unenviable position of awaiting visa clearance. This, one might wryly observe, is the less glamorous side of international sports – a contest against paperwork rather than pace bowlers. Their delayed departures highlight the logistical complexities that often underpin global sporting events.
The ODI series is scheduled to commence at the iconic Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Cricket enthusiasts can mark their calendars for October 8, 11, and 14, as these dates promise exciting encounters between two competitive cricketing nations.
Bangladesh`s 16-Member ODI Squad for Afghanistan Series:
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c)
- Tanzid Hasan Tamim
- Md Naim Sheikh
- Mohammed Saif Hassan
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Tawhid Hridoy
- Jaker Ali Anik
- Shamim Hossain
- Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan
- Rishad Hossain
- Tanvir Islam
- Taskin Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib
- Hasan Mahmud
- Nahid Rana
As Bangladesh gears up to face Afghanistan, the focus will undoubtedly be on how this dynamic squad, particularly with the integration of new talent like Saif Hasan, performs under pressure. The series offers an invaluable opportunity for players to solidify their positions and for the team to fine-tune its strategies, aiming for both individual milestones and collective success on the international stage.
