Bangladesh unveils squad for the ODI series against Afghanistan; Najmul Hossain Shanto to remain as captain

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially announced the squad for the highly anticipated ODI series against Afghanistan, scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates. The three-match series will commence on November 6 at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Najmul Hossain Shanto remains captain after discussions with BCB

Najmul Hossain Shanto‘s captaincy had been the subject of much speculation, as the left-handed batter had recently hinted at stepping down due to uncertainties about his readiness for the leadership role. However, following a crucial discussion with BCB president Faruque Ahmed, Shanto agreed to continue leading the team in the ODI format. Sources suggest that while Shanto will remain the captain for this series, a potential reshuffle of leadership roles could be on the horizon for Bangladesh’s other formats.

New additions and key omissions in the squad

The squad sees some significant changes, with both new faces and experienced players missing out. One of the notable inclusions is the uncapped fast bowler Nahid Rana, who has earned his spot following a promising domestic performance. His selection brings fresh energy to the team’s pace attack, filling the void left by other senior bowlers.

On the other hand, Litton Das, a prominent wicketkeeper-batter, will not be part of the series as he is still recovering from illness. Another prominent absentee is pacer Tanzim Shakib, who was sidelined due to a shoulder injury. Veteran players like Anamul Haque, Taijul Islam, and Hasan Mahmud were also excluded from the squad, signaling a shift toward newer players.

Returning to the squad are Zakir Hasan and Nasum Ahmed, who have shown consistency in recent matches and will be key assets for the series. Their comeback marks an opportunity to further strengthen Bangladesh’s spin department and middle order.

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Shakib Al Hasan withdraws due to lack of preparation

In a surprising twist, all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who was initially expected to join the team, has opted out of the ODI series. BCB president Faruque Ahmed disclosed that Shakib felt unprepared for the intensity of the series, having not fully practiced after missing the last Test match against South Africa due to security concerns and personal disappointment. Shakib reportedly expressed that, without adequate training, playing in the series might not be beneficial for him or the team.

“When Shakib couldn’t participate in the final Test (against South Africa), it affected him deeply. He didn’t train as he usually does. Being the professional that he is, Shakib thought it wouldn’t be fair to represent the country without proper preparation,” Faruque revealed to the media in Chattogram.

Bangladesh squad for Afghanistan ODIs

Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Zakir Hasan, Nazmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hassan Miraz (vice-captain), Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.

Schedule and venue details

The first of the three ODI matches between Bangladesh and Afghanistan is set to kick off on November 6 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The series promises to be an exciting battle, with both teams eager to make their mark on the international stage.

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