After falling short of qualifying for the Super Fours in the Asia Cup, Afghanistan now turn their attention to a three-match T20I series against Bangladesh in Sharjah. Both teams come into the contest looking for redemption, but with contrasting confidence levels. Afghanistan, despite their pool of talent, appear out of rhythm, while Bangladesh, although advancing further in the Asia Cup, were comprehensively beaten by India and Pakistan.
This series offers a fresh opportunity for both sides to reset and stake a claim as genuine contenders on the international stage.
Afghanistan Preview: Seeking Consistency
Afghanistan’s T20I record against Bangladesh in recent years has been underwhelming, winning just one of their last four encounters since 2023. In their Asia Cup clash, skipper Rashid Khan nearly pulled off a late rescue with 20 off 11 balls, but the side fell just short.
The onus at the top will be on Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Sediqullah Atal to build a solid opening partnership on what is traditionally a tricky Sharjah surface. Without Karim Janat, the middle order of Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasooli, and veteran Mohammad Nabi becomes even more crucial. All-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai provides balance and could be pivotal in stabilizing innings under pressure.
Afghanistan’s strength, however, lies in its spin department. Rashid Khan, alongside youngster Noor Ahmad, will lead the attack on a surface that naturally aids slower bowlers. Their pacers—armed with cutters and variations—will also be key, as Sharjah often rewards clever change-of-pace bowling.
Predicted XI (Afghanistan):
Sediqullah Atal, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Mohammad Ishaq, Azmatullah Omarzai, Sharfuddin Ashraf, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmad, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Abdullah Ahmadzai
Bangladesh Preview: Bowling Strong, Batting a Concern
Bangladesh enter the series with a well-rounded squad and a captain in Jaker Ali who trusts his bowling attack. Their bowlers impressed in the Asia Cup, defending modest totals with discipline. Mustafizur Rahman, Rishad Hossain, and Nasum Ahmed were standout performers, while Taskin Ahmed and Mahedi Hasan also caused problems for Pakistan’s batting lineup.
The concern lies with their batting unit. Against Pakistan, they stumbled chasing 136, and versus India, they managed only 127 chasing 159. The opening pair—Saif Hassan and Parvez Hossain Emon—has been inconsistent, failing to set strong foundations. Middle-order stability will depend heavily on Towhid Hridoy, Soumya Sarkar, and Mahedi Hasan.
Still, Bangladesh’s ability to grind out victories through their bowlers gives them an edge, especially in low-scoring games.
Predicted XI (Bangladesh):
Saif Hassan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali (c & wk), Nurul Hasan, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman
Conditions at Sharjah
Sharjah is expected to offer clear skies and humid conditions around match time, with temperatures hovering at 32°C. The humidity may provide early swing for seamers, but the wicket itself is slow and typically favors spinners.
Despite the small boundaries, scoring is never straightforward here due to the sluggish pitch. The average first-innings score is around 145, making anything above 165 a potential match-winning total.
Toss Factor:
Batting first is historically advantageous at Sharjah, with 44 wins in 71 matches. Putting runs on the board will be vital, as chasing on a slowing surface can quickly become tricky.
Winning Prediction: Bangladesh Hold a Slight Edge
This contest is finely balanced, with both teams boasting world-class spin options and crafty bowlers capable of exploiting Sharjah’s conditions. Afghanistan will rely on their depth in batting and Rashid Khan’s leadership, while Bangladesh will lean on their more consistent bowling attack.
Given their recent ability to defend totals and Afghanistan’s inconsistency with the bat, Bangladesh enter the series opener with a narrow edge. However, the outcome may hinge on whichever top order settles quicker and crosses the 150-run mark.
Prediction: Bangladesh to win
