Afghanistan will host Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series in the UAE in November, replacing an earlier all-format tour due to concerns over temperature. The matches are scheduled for November 6, 9, and 11, and are pivotal for both teams’ preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2024. Afghanistan is currently in good form after defeating South Africa in a recent series.
Afghanistan is set to host Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series in the United Arab Emirates, scheduled to take place in November. Although the specific stadiums have yet to be determined, this series replaces the proposed all-format tour that was originally planned for earlier this year in accordance with the ICC’s Future Tours Programme (FTP). The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) opted not to travel to either the UAE or India, citing concerns regarding extreme temperatures in both countries. Consequently, the upcoming encounters will consist solely of three ODIs, with matches slated for November 6, 9, and 11. The Afghanistan Cricket Board published a statement indicating that, “Following extensive discussions, both boards have agreed to proceed with just the ODI leg, which will be crucial in both teams’ preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy, which is set to take place in Pakistan in February next year.” In recent discussions, BCB President Faruque Ahmed confirmed meetings with officials from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) during the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting held in Malaysia. The BCB expressed interest in competing against Afghanistan in ODIs, especially given that Bangladesh has participated in only three 50-over matches this year, with three additional games upcoming against the West Indies. Afghanistan appears to be in excellent form following their remarkable performance in the recent T20 World Cup. They mesmerized cricket audiences with their first-ever series victory against a top-five ICC-ranked team, defeating South Africa in the UAE. The Afghan team, known as the Blue Tigers, achieved commanding victories in the first two matches of their recent Sharjah series, winning by six wickets and 177 runs, and successfully restricting South Africa to scores of 106 and 134 runs. South Africa later won a consolation match, successfully chasing down a target of 170 runs. Subsequent to the ODI series against Bangladesh, Afghanistan will head to Zimbabwe for an all-format series in December, marking a busy schedule ahead for both teams involved in the upcoming series.
Afghanistan and Bangladesh are set to engage in a crucial ODI series in the UAE as part of their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for early next year. The series comes after the BCB opted against a full-format tour due to climate concerns in the UAE and India. Afghanistan is currently riding a wave of success in international cricket, having recently secured a historic win against South Africa, which adds competitive intrigue to the upcoming matches against Bangladesh.
In conclusion, the decision for Afghanistan to host Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series in the UAE marks an important development in the cricket calendar for both teams. This series not only replaces the previously planned all-format tour but also serves as a vital preparation opportunity for the ICC Champions Trophy. With Afghanistan’s current form following recent victories, the series promises to be highly competitive and engaging for cricket enthusiasts.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
