- Tue, March 15, 2022
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The Afghanistan Cricket Board's (ACB) National Selection Committee has finalized the Afghanistan National Team squad for the upcoming three-match One Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh. The series is scheduled to take place from November 6 to November 11, 2024, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Key Absences and Additions
Afghanistan will be without two key players for the series. Prolific top-order batter Ibrahim Zadran is still recovering from ankle surgery, which he recently underwent in England. Zadran has been a pivotal figure in Afghanistan's batting lineup, and his absence is a significant blow for the Afghan team. The 22-year-old has accumulated 1,493 runs in 28 ODIs, with an impressive average of 59.72.
The spin department also faces a setback with Mujeeb Ur Rahman missing out due to a right phalanx sprain. Mujeeb, one of the world’s most effective white-ball spinners, has been a consistent performer for Afghanistan, particularly in the middle overs, where his unique bowling style puts pressure on opposing teams.
To compensate for these absences, the selection committee has called up left-handed top-order batter Sediqullah Atal. Atal, who has represented Afghanistan in six T20 Internationals, has been in superb form in domestic cricket and is currently the leading run-scorer in the ongoing ACC Men's T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024. His inclusion provides depth to the Afghan batting unit, especially in Zadran’s absence.
Another notable return is young left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad, who missed the previous ODI series against South Africa. His inclusion strengthens the spin department, which will be led by Afghanistan’s premier all-rounder Rashid Khan.
Afghanistan Squad for Bangladesh ODIs
ACB CEO and Chief Selector’s Remarks
ACB CEO Mr. Naseeb Khan expressed his optimism about the team’s performance, highlighting Afghanistan’s successful year in white-ball cricket. “The calendar year 2024 has been action-packed and quite successful for the ACB and the AfghanAtalan lineup, particularly in white-ball cricket. ODI cricket has been a top priority for us, as it helps us prepare the team for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy,” he said.
He also acknowledged the challenge posed by Bangladesh but remained confident in the selected squad. “Playing against Bangladesh has always been challenging and full of joy. I believe the group of players selected for this series will perform exceptionally well and bring more glory to our nation.”
ACB Chief Selector Mr. Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil provided insights into the squad selection, expressing faith in Sediqullah Atal and Noor Ahmad. “Ibrahim Zadran is currently undergoing rehabilitation and continues to recover from the surgery he recently had. Mujeeb Ur Rahman also remains unavailable due to ongoing treatment. However, Noor Ahmad is back in the squad, and we have included a promising top-order batter in Sediqullah Atal, who has impressed everyone with his consistent top performances.”
Series Schedule
Sponsors and Media Rights
Etisalat Afghanistan Telecommunication Company holds the title sponsorship rights for this series, while Super Cola Beverages Manufacturing Company is the co-sponsor. Marhaba Auctions has secured the associate sponsorship for the three-match ODI series. The media rights for Bangladesh have been awarded to Total Sports Management (TSM), and FireBird Universe is responsible for production and global media syndication.
Afghanistan’s ODI series against Bangladesh promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams aiming to sharpen their skills ahead of future international tournaments. Afghanistan will look to build on its momentum after a successful series against South Africa, while Bangladesh, known for its competitive spirit, will aim to challenge Afghanistan on neutral ground. Fans can look forward to a highly competitive series in Sharjah.
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