Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
Bangladesh eye to beat Afghanistan as T20 series begins Thursday
After winning the three-match ODI series 2-1, Bangladesh are eyeing also to grab the two-match T20 series against Afghanistan starting on Thursday in Dhaka. While the first match will be played on Thursday, the second and final match will take place on Saturday at the same venue.
Read:BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Bangladesh Seek Resurgence in Twenty20 Format Before this series, Bangladesh took on Afghanistan in six matches and won only two. Last year, Bangladesh played 27 T20Is and lost 11 of them. These stats prove that Bangladesh are yet to find their zeal in this format despite playing it on a regular basis. “We’ll try to play T20 cricket with a positive attitude and mentality. The batters need to play fearlessly, and bowlers will also have to show some aggressive approach. Our only focus is to play well,” Mahmudullah told the media on Wednesday. In the recent World Cup that took place in Oman and the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh failed to do well. They had managed to pass the initial round, but failed to win any match in the next phase of the event. With another World Cup on sight, the Bangladesh captain said they are not looking too far now. Instead, their focus is more on the current series. Bangladesh might include Munim Shahriar in the playing XI, who drew the attention of many in the just-concluded season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) with his ability of clean hitting.
Read:BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Players to Watch “Munim has a good chance to play tomorrow (Thursday). But I cannot confirm it now. We’ll plan on match-day morning about the batting order,” Mahmudullah said, mentioning that Mohammad Naim also has a good chance to start the innings despite his lean performance in the BPL. Munim scored more than 170 runs in the BPL with a strike rate exceeding 150. In contrast, Naim had been out of the form in most parts of BPL while representing Minister Group Dhaka which was led by Mahmudullah. Bangladesh also included Yasir Ali in the T20 squad. The right-handed batter got his ODI cap in the ODI series against the same opponent but failed to prove his mettle on two occasions the batted. Bangladesh are currently number nine in the T20 team ranking while Afghanistan are at eight. Bangladesh will have a good chance to surpass the Afghans if they can win this series 2-0. Bangladesh are going to miss the service of Tamim Iqbal who did well in the BPL. The left-handed batter went for a break of six months from this format. Mahmudullah called his team to play T20 cricket in an aggressive manner. He also said that the batters of the top-order need to come up with some explosive batting to have a good start to the match.
Mahmudullah aims to play fearless cricket in T20Is
Ahead of the two-match T20I series against Afghanistan, Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah Riyad expressed his aim to play fearless cricket in the shorter format of the game.
Bangladesh previously played six matches against Afghanistan in this format and lost four of them. Afghan spinners played the main roles behind their success against Bangladesh in the T20s.
Read:BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Bangladesh Seek Resurgence in Twenty20 Format
“We’ll try to play T20 cricket with a positive attitude and mentality. The batters need to play fearlessly, and bowlers will also have to show some aggressive approach. Our only focus is to play well,” Mahmudullah told the media on Wednesday.
The Bangladesh captain also said that they are looking forward to having a good start that could guide them to the ultimate goal of winning the matches.
Munim Shahriar, the new batter in the set-up, could deliver the outstanding start with the hard-hitting ability that he displayed in the last season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), he said.
“Munim has a good chance to play tomorrow (Thursday). But I cannot confirm it now. We’ll plan on match-day morning about the batting order,” Mahmudullah said, mentioning that Mohammad Naim also has a good chance to start the innings despite his lean performance in the BPL.
Bangladesh is going to miss the service of Tamim Iqbal in this series. The left-handed batter has earlier sought a six-month break from the format. Mahmudullah said the team has all the respect for this ‘personal call’ of Tamim.
Read:BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Players to Watch
“Tamim had a good time in BPL. He played well. He batted in an outstanding manner. It was his personal call (to stay away from international T20s for at least six months). We have to respect his call,” Mahmudullah added.
Prior to the T20 series, Bangladesh played a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan and won 2-0. Afghanistan won the last match after losing the first two matches in Chattogram.
BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Bangladesh Seek Resurgence in Twenty20 Format
The Bangladesh twenty20 team will be seeking to make a strong comeback during the bilateral series against Afghanistan after a dismal T20 World Cup 2021 and Pakistan series. Bangladesh have lost their previous eight matches and haven't played a T20I series since November of last year. Except for Tamim Iqbal, senior players have returned to the T20I setup, while Afghanistan have dropped some of its regular T20 players for the series. The first match preview of the BAN vs AFG T20I series 2022 is discussed in this article.
First Match Preview of BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022
Bangladesh skipper Mahmudullah Riyad wants a brave effort from his team now that experienced players have returned to the squad. Oppositely, Afghanistan skipper Mohammad Nabi will rely primarily on his star players in the absence of some experienced members. The match will begin at 3 p.m. (Bangladesh Standard Time) on Thursday.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh's last two T20 series were a complete disaster that no one wants to remember. The T20 team needs a fresh start with some strong performances from its players. The most crucial thing is that they require consistent performances from its top order.
Read BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Players to Watch
The openers have struggled to make an impression on an international stage. Mohammad Naim has tried to fill Tamim's role but his strike rotation has been poor and ineffective on most occasions. Munim Shahriar received his first call-up, he had a good season in the BPL 2022. Munim's performance wowed everyone and he may make his international debut in the first match.
Yasir Ali and Afif Hossain will need to prove that they are improving as players in the middle order, especially while facing Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Mustafiz's cutter, Taskin's pace, and Nasum's spin should be excellent against Afghanistan batters. Besides, senior members will have to deal with issues sensibly when necessary.
Read BAN vs AFG 2022: Notable T20I records between Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
Predicted playing XI
Top Order: Liton Das, Munim Shahriar, Shakib Al Hasan;
Middle-Orders: Mushfiqur Rahim (wicket-keeper), Mahmudullah Riyad (captain), Yasir Ali, Afif Hossain, Mahedi Hasan;
Lower-Order: Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Nasum Ahmed.
Read BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Bangladesh Aim to Leapfrog Afghanistan in ICC Rankings
Afghanistan
Afghanistan's main concern would be the absence of several of its experienced players, as well as the performance of the newcomers against a difficult Bangladeshi team. Captain Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, and Najibullah Zadran will be responsible for the bulk of the responsibilities.
Afghanistan's bowling unit is quite strong, and there is little doubt that their bowling is among the best in the game's shortest format. That's why Afghanistan will feel more at ease defending against Bangladesh than chasing.
Fazalhaq Farooqi has been a revolution for Afghanistan since the Bangladesh tour. He will be in charge of the Afghan pace attack. Besides, Mujeeb, Nabi, and Rashid will cause a lot of problems for Bangladesh batters.
Read ICC Test Championship: SA maintain fourth position after series draw against NZ
Afghanistan require a strong start from the openers in the batting order, particularly from Hazratullah Zazai. Najibullah and Nabi in the middle order will have to take the team to victory.
Predicted Playing XI
Top Order: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicket-Keeper), Hazratullah Zazai, Darwish Rasooli, Middle Orders: Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi (captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Lower Order: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi.
Read ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022: Full Fixtures, Dates, Venues
Pitch Report and Weather
According to forecasts on Thursday, the match will be played on a sunny day, ideal for a T20 encounter. SBNCS in Mirpur pitches assist spinners, and wickets are usually kept the same for T20 matches. The BPL 2022 later phases saw some high-scoring encounters. Therefore, the series may feature batting-friendly pitches.
Bottom Line
Winning the ODI series against Afghanistan was expected from the Bangladesh team and they deservedly won the contest by a 2-1 margin. However, Afghanistan have always been a fantastic twenty20 side and Bangladesh will find it difficult to win this T20I series even without some experienced Afghan players. Bangladesh campaign expects good performance from the team after the comeback of seasoned cricketers such as Shakib and Mushfiqur. The hosts can win the BAN vs AFG T20I series 2022 by winning both matches if they map out a proper plan to limit their opponents.
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Bangladesh Can Reach Sixth Position in ICC ODI Rankings
BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Players to Watch
The T20I series between Bangladesh and Afghanistan is predicted to be enthralling given that the visitors have a better record against the hosts in the Twenty20 format. Both sides will be keen to win the series in order to show their capabilities to the rest of the cricket world. Therefore, big names of either side will be ready to show their true potential during the 2-match series. Take a look at the five players who are expected to perform well in the BAN vs AFG T20I series 2022.
Five Important Players in BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022
Both the Bangladesh and Afghanistan squads have a few genuine world-class T20 players. Five key players who might have a significant impact on the series are discussed in this article. Let's have a glance at their international T20 career statistics.
Mustafizur Rahman
T20I Stats: M: 61 | Wkts: 86 | BBI: 5/22 | Ave: 19.51 | Econ: 7.63 | 5W: 1
Mustafizur Rahman's bowling is ideal for Bangladesh conditions. His main weapon, a lethal and deceptive off-cutter delivery, works well in Mirpur pitches, where the BAN vs AFG T20I series will be staged. He has the ability to check the run flow and make important breakthroughs when required. Therefore, left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman will be one of the most crucial players in the series.
Read BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Bangladesh Aim to Leapfrog Afghanistan in ICC Rankings
Mujeeb Ur Rahman
T20I Stats: M: 22 | Wkts: 32 | BBI: 5/20 | Ave: 15.87 | Econ: 6.04 | 5W: 1
A highly talented Afghanistan off-spinner, Mujeeb Ur Rahman has established himself as one of the most sought-after spinners in the T20 format. The tall spinner is a skilled bowler who uses tight lines and lengths to put pressure on the opposition batters. He has become a household name in twenty20 franchise competitions all over the world because of his wicket-taking ability. Mujeeb's spell will be key for Afghanistan during the series.
Rashid Khan
T20I Stats: M: 56 | Wkts: 103 | BBI: 5/3 | Ave: 12.73 | Econ: 6.20 | 5W: 2
The presence of Rashid Khan on a squad adds to concern on the opposition side, as the dynamic leg-spinner knows how to utterly dismantle batting lineups. Rashid Khan's leg spin is more effective in the shortest format of the game. Because batters have fewer opportunities to adapt with his bowling in limited-overs cricket. As a result, batters have to take risks against Rashid in order to increase the run rates, allowing Rashid to capture wickets. The Afghan maestro will surely play a pivotal role in the series.
Read ICC Test Championship: SA maintain fourth position after series draw against NZ
Mohammad Nabi
T20I Stats: M: 86 | Runs: 1523 | HS: 89 | SR: 143.27 | 50s: 4 | Wkts: 73 | BBI: 4/10 | Ave: 27.95 | Econ: 7.24 | 4W: 3
The Afghanistan team's most experienced player is Mohammad Nabi. He is a true breakthrough bowler as well as a highly aggressive batter in the batting order. Nabi is the captain of the Afghanistan team, which comes with additional responsibilities. Overall, Nabi's cricketing intellect will be vital for the visiting side throughout the series.
Shakib Al Hasan
T20I Stats: M: 94 | Runs: 1,894 | HS: 84 | SR: 120.48 | 50s: 9 | Wkts: 117 | BBI: 5/20 | Ave: 19.79 | Econ: 6.66 | 5W: 1
The best all-rounder in the world, Shakib Al Hasan did not play in the Pakistan series in November. Bangladesh's performance in the series was a complete letdown without him. Therefore, Shakib's return to the squad will boost the confidence among the players during the series. Shakib will be crucial for Bangladesh to win this bilateral T20I series, especially against a tough Afghanistan team.
Read BAN vs AFG 2022: Notable T20I records between Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
Aftermath
The five players named above are some of the well-known names in T20 cricket around the world. They have the capacity to play better under pressure and can win games for their respective teams on their own. Therefore, both teams will be eagerly anticipating their performances in the BAN vs AFG T20I series in 2022. Their on-field performances will surely captivate the stadium crowds, as BCB has chosen to sell out the entire Mirpur Stadium seating capacity tickets for the series.
BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022: Bangladesh Aim to Leapfrog Afghanistan in ICC Rankings
Bangladesh are ranked ninth in the ICC T20I rankings at the end of February 2022. They have a chance to rise up to eighth place in the rankings during the forthcoming home series against Afghanistan. The performance of the Bangladesh team in the 2-1 series triumph against Afghanistan was noteworthy. However, they will face significant resistance in the shortest version of the game, as Afghanistan is a formidable T20 team. Let's look at the possible rankings scenario of the Bangladesh team in the BAN vs AFG T20I series 2022.
Bangladesh’s ICC Rankings Scenario at the end of BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022
According to the most recent update on ICC rankings, Bangladesh are just one rating point behind Afghanistan. The Afghan side has 3,951 points after 17 games, while Bangladesh have 8,529 points after 37 games.
Bangladesh will jump Afghanistan and move up to the ninth position in the standings if they win the forthcoming series 2-0. Bangladesh will get 233 rating points if they sweep Afghanistan in the T20I series. As a result, they will climb one place in the T20I standings. On the other hand, Afghanistan will drop to ninth place.
Read: BAN vs AFG 2022: Notable T20I records between Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
Bangladesh and Afghanistan will stay in their current ICC T20I rankings if the series finishes in a 1-1 draw. Besides, Afghanistan will move up to seventh place in the standings if they win the series 2-0 over Bangladesh. In such a case, West Indies will drop to ninth place, while Afghanistan's rating will improve to 237.
On the other hand, Sri Lanka will benefit if any team wins the series by a 2-0 margin. If this happens, Sri Lanka will rise to ninth place, while the losing team would drop to tenth.
T20I ranking scenarios for major cricket nations
India climbed to the top of the ICC T20I rankings after a 3-0 clean sweep of Sri Lanka on February 27. On the other hand, Sri Lanka dropped to tenth place.
India topped the ICC Twenty20 International standings with 270 rating points at the end of February. England are in second place with 269 rating points, followed by Pakistan, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Read: Gurbaz guides Afghanistan to easy win
The defending T20 World Cup champion, Australia are in sixth place with 249 rating points. They will have the opportunity to enhance their standings in the forthcoming Pakistan series. In addition, two-time T20 World Cup champions West Indies are ranked seventh, Afghanistan are eighth, Bangladesh are ninth, and Sri Lanka are tenth in the current ICC T20I rankings.
ICC T20I Team Rankings (as of February 28, 2022)
India (270 rating points), England (269 rating points), Pakistan (266 rating points), New Zealand (255 rating points), South Africa (253 rating points), Australia (249 rating points), West Indies (235 rating points), Afghanistan (232 rating points), Bangladesh (231 rating points), Sri Lanka (230 rating points)
Read: ICC Test Championship: SA maintain fourth position after series draw against NZ
Bottom Line
Bangladesh's main goal against Afghanistan would be to win both matches and clinch the series. Bangladesh’s ICC Twenty20 International rankings will rise If they win the series 2-0. Therefore, they will have to take both games of the BAN vs AFG T20I series 2022 seriously. In this regard, the Mahmudullah Riyad-led team should be more ardent in its efforts to whitewash Afghanistan. The matches will take place at the SBNCS in Mirpur on March 3 and 5. The bouts will begin at 3 p.m. (Bangladesh Standard Time).
BAN vs AFG 2022: Notable T20I records between Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
The BAN vs AFG 2022 T20I series will commence on March 3rd. The Bangladesh team's confidence has skyrocketed after winning the one-day international series against Afghanistan. However, Afghanistan are a very tough Twenty20 team and they will put up a good fight against the host during the 2-match series. Therefore, the T20I series promises to be even more thrilling. Let's take a look at some notable T20I records between Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
Head to Head T20I Records: Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
Bangladesh and Afghanistan have played six Twenty20 Internationals against each other. Afghanistan have a 4-2 lead in the head-to-head contest. Bangladesh have won two games and lost one at home. On the other side, Afghanistan have a three-match winning streak over Bangladesh at neutral venues.
The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in India has hosted most of the meetings between these two sides. However, Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla stadium will break this record because it will host both of the scheduled two matches. Bangladesh last played Afghanistan in a T20I match in a tri-series more than two years ago. The following is a list of noteworthy T20I records between these two sides.
Read ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2022: Full Fixtures, Dates, Venues
Bangladesh vs Afghanistan: Important T20I records
Bangladesh
Afghanistan
Matches Played (6)
2
4
Most Runs
Mahmudullah Riyad (138 runs in 5 innings)
Mohammad Nabi (125 runs in 6 innings)
Highest Score
Shakib Al Hasan (70*)
Mohammad Nabi (84*)
Most Fifties
Shakib Al Hasan (1)
Mohammad Nabi (1)
Most Wickets
Shakib Al Hasan (8)
Rashid Khan (12)
Best Bowling Figures
Mohammad Saifuddin (4/33)
Rashid Khan (4/12)
Most Matches
Mahmudullah, Mushfiqur and Shakib (6)
Mohammad Nabi (6)
Highest Partnership
Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah (84)
Asghar Afghan and Mohammad Nabi (79)
Most Catches
Mahmudullah (5)
Rashid Khan (5)
Most Dismissals
Mushfiqur Rahim (3)
Mohammad Shahzad (2)
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Bangladesh Can Reach Sixth Position in ICC ODI Rankings
2022 Bangladesh vs Afghanistan T20I Series: Venue Stats
The SBNCS in Mirpur will host all of the bilateral T20I matches between Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
The overall T20I statistics: Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, Dhaka
Matches Played: 57 | Bat-first (won): 28 | Bat-Second (won): 29 | Highest Innings: 111* (Ahmed Shehzad) | Best Bowling (Innings): 5/15 (Keemo Paul) | Highest Team innings: 211/4 | Lowest Team Innings: 60
Bangladesh’s record at the SBNCS: Played: 39 | Win: 18 | Lost: 21
Afghanistan’s record at the SBNCS: Played: 04 | Win: 03 | Lost: 01
Read IND vs SL T20I Series 2022: India aspire clean sweep against Sri Lanka
Bangladesh-Afghanistan T20I Series 2022: Players to Watch
Bangladesh have a very strong team at home, with a number of talented T20 players. On the other hand, Afghanistan have some world-class T20 players. Here are a few players from both teams that can make a difference in the BAN vs AFG 2022 T20I series.
Bangladesh
Three Key Batters: Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad
Three Key Bowlers: Mustafizur Rahman, Shakib Al Hasan, Nasum Ahmed
Bangladesh's Probable Playing XI (First T20I)
Liton Das (wicket-keeper), Munim Shahriar, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad (captain), Afif Hossain, Yasir Ali, Mahedi Hasan, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Nasum Ahmed.
Read ICC WC Super League Points Table: Bangladesh Dethrone England after Series Win over Afghanistan
Afghanistan
Three Key Batters: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Hazratullah Zazai, Mohammad Nabi
Three Key Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi
Afghanistan's Probable Playing XI (First T20I)
Hazratullah Zazai, Usman Ghani, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wicket-keeper), Najibullah Zadran, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi (captain), Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad
Bottom Line
Bangladesh were the heavy favourites in the One-Day International series, and they deservedly clinched it. However, the hosts will not start as favourites in the T20I contest because the visiting Afghanistan team enjoys the T20 format. Besides, the head-to-head record between these two countries shows that Afghanistan have the upper hand over Bangladesh. They will be a difficult opponent for the Bangladesh T20 team in the upcoming series. Overall, both teams have an equal chance of winning the BAN vs AFG 2022 series, depending on how they handle pressure in the contest.
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Five Unique Records Broken in the First Match
BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Bangladesh Can Reach Sixth Position in ICC ODI Rankings
Bangladesh are ranked seventh in the ICC ODI rankings after the second match of the BAN vs AFG ODI series 2022. The hosts have been dominating the ongoing bilateral limited-overs series with Afghanistan, and they are strong favorites to win the third match. If Bangladesh can whitewash Afghanistan in the three-match ODI series, they would boost their ODI rankings even further. Let's look at how Bangladesh could enhance its current ICC One-Day International rankings.
ICC Ranking Scenario for Bangladesh at the end of BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022
According to the most recent update on February 26, Bangladesh remain in seventh place in the ICC One-Day International rankings, just behind Pakistan. Though both Bangladesh and Pakistan have the same 93 rating points. Pakistan earned those rating points by playing fewer matches than Bangladesh, which is why they are still ranked sixth.
Read IND vs SL T20I Series 2022: India aspire clean sweep against Sri Lanka
Pakistan achieved those points by playing 27 games, whilst Bangladesh had to play 32 games to get 93 rating points. However, Bangladesh would leapfrog Pakistan and move up to sixth place in the standings if they defeat Afghanistan in the third match of the ongoing limited-overs series on Monday (February 28).
If Bangladesh sweep Afghanistan in the ODI series, they will receive 94 rating points. As a result, they will move up one spot in their current ICC rankings. On the other hand, Pakistan will drop to the seventh position. Bangladesh will remain in sixth place at the end of March if they win at least one match against South Africa in the upcoming ODI series and Australia whitewash Pakistan in their away ODI series.
Read BAN vs AFG Series 2022: Bangladesh Eye Clean Sweep against Afghanistan in Final ODI
However, Bangladesh will drop two rating points if they lose tomorrow's encounter against Afghanistan. In this scenario, Bangladesh will remain in seventh place with 91 rating points.
Ranking predictions for top cricket nations at the end of February 2022
There are no more ODI matches for the major cricket nations in February, with the exception of the third ODI match between Bangladesh and Afghanistan on Monday. Therefore, New Zealand will remain the top-ranked One-Day International side at the end of February 2022.
Read ICC WC Super League Points Table: Bangladesh Dethrone England after Series Win over Afghanistan
New Zealand lead the ICC One-Day International rankings with 121 rating points. The defending World Cup champions, England are in second place with 119 rating points, followed by their arch-rival Australia, Asian powerhouse India, and African heavyweights South Africa. Pakistan are ranked sixth and Bangladesh are in the seventh position, respectively.
Apart from them, 1996 World Cup Champions Sri Lanka are ranked eighth, two-time World Cup Champions West Indies are in the ninth position, and Afghanistan are placed tenth in the current ICC ODI rankings.
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Five Unique Records Broken in the First Match
ICC ODI Team Rankings (as of February 26, 2022)
Ranking
Team
Rating
1
New Zealand
121
2
England
119
3
Australia
116
4
India
110
5
South Africa
105
6
Pakistan
93
7
Bangladesh
93
8
Sri Lanka
81
9
West Indies
77
10
Afghanistan
65
Source: https://www.icc-cricket.com/rankings/mens/team-rankings/odi
Bottom Line
Bangladesh's primary objective is to whitewash Afghanistan's limited-overs team in the third match in the ongoing BAN vs AFG ODI series 2022. Bangladesh's ICC One-Day International rankings and World Cup Super League points would both improve if they win the series 3-0. Therefore, the final match of the series is essential for Bangladesh national men's cricket team. In that perspective, the Tamim Iqbal-led team will be even more driven to win tomorrow's (February 28) encounter against the visiting Afghan side at ZACS, Chattogram. The game will begin at 11 a.m. (Bangladesh Standard Time).
Read BAN vs AFG 2022: Attainable Milestones for Bangladesh Players in the Afghanistan Series
BAN vs AFG Series 2022: Bangladesh Eye Clean Sweep against Afghanistan in Final ODI
The Bangladesh national men's cricket team expects to complete a clean sweep against Afghanistan in the last match after winning the ODI series on Friday (February 25) at ZACS, Chattogram. The third match of the series will be played at the same venue on Monday and will start at 11 a.m. Bangladesh will not take the match lightly because it is part of the ICC's World Cup Super League, which awards 10 points for each victory. The third ODI preview of the BAN vs AFG 2022 series is discussed in this article.
Third Match Preview of Bangladesh-Afghanistan ODI Series 2022
Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal expects his team to be more ruthless against Afghanistan in the third match after two back-to-back encouraging victories. On the other hand, the Afghanistan team will strive to restore some pride by winning the last match.
Bangladesh
Bangladesh team will try for a whitewash in the third match to show the rest of the cricket world that they are a better one-day international team than Afghanistan. Winning the series 3-0 will also increase their confidence ahead of next month's T20I series against Afghanistan. Besides, a valuable 30 points for the CWC Super League would improve their position in the standings. Therefore, the Bangladesh campaign will not take the final encounter of the series lightly.
Read ICC WC Super League Points Table: Bangladesh Dethrone England after Series Win over Afghanistan
Tamim Iqbal has done an outstanding job as captain. His decision-making and bowling changes have been superb in this series. However, Tamim Iqbal has struggled with the bat. The southpaw was out twice in a similar fashion in the first two matches. He has to improve his batting technique. Shakib Al Hasan also struggled with the bat in the first two matches. Everyone expects these two players to flourish with the bat in the last game. Apart from them, middle-order batter Yasir Ali should try to show his ability if he gets an opportunity to bat in the match.
Bangladesh team management may decide to give a couple of players their ODI debuts. Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Nasum Ahmed are two of them. Therefore, two changes are possible in the forthcoming match.
Top Two Performers of Bangladesh in BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022
Liton Das (Batting) - Inn: 2 | Runs: 137 | HS: 136 | Ave: 68.50 | SR: 102.33 | 100s: 1
Taskin Ahmed (Bowling) - Inn: 2 | Wickets: 4 | BBI: 2/31 | Ave: 21.50 | Econ: 4.30
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Five Unique Records Broken in the First Match
Probable Playing XI
Top Order: Tamim Iqbal (Captain), Liton Das, Shakib Al Hasan, Middle-Orders: Yasir Ali/Mahmudul Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Miraz, Lower-Order: Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam/Ebadot Hossain
Afghanistan
Afghanistan's flaws were exposed in the first two games. The Afghan team's inability to map out a proper plan for the limited-overs format is one of their biggest problems. They are adept at putting up a suitable game plan for the T20 format, but they have weaknesses when it comes to developing strategy and, more importantly, executing it on the field in a 50-over encounter.
Read PM congratulates Tigers on winning 2nd ODI vs Afghanistan and sealing series
Afghanistan's bowling unit is its biggest strength. They have some world-class spinners on their squad, as well as a few potential pacers. However, these players must be capable of making breakthroughs when needed. On the other side, Afghan batters must improve their batting technique and tenacity. It's crucial to be able to score quickly in modern-day cricket, but the ability to play long innings is even more important. Afghanistan's batters must concentrate on forming partnerships in the middle, which would help them to win the match.
Another problem with which they should be concerned is the captaincy. Newly-appointed skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi has made some major errors in previous matches. Particularly, his bowling rotation was ineffective in the opening match. Shahidi appears to be clueless when dealing with crisis situations. Obviously, leading the team to more matches will enhance his decision-making. However, he must think outside the box in order to put pressure on the opposition batters.
Read Liton-Mushfiqur partnership ensures series win against Afghanistan
Afghanistan team management should revive its squad for the third One-Day International since they cannot afford to lose another match in the series. Their prospects of finishing in the top eight in the ICC CWC Super League will be slim if they lose the final match of the series. Afghanistan may also make some changes to its playing XI.
Top Two Performers of Afghanistan in BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022
Najibullah Zadran (Batting) - Inn: 2 | Runs: 121 | HS: 67 | Ave: 60.50 | SR: 83.44 | 50s: 2
Fazalhaq Farooqi (Bowling) - Inn: 2 | Wickets: 5 | BBI: 4/54 | Ave: 22.60 | Econ: 5.65 | 4W: 1
Probable Playing XI
Top Order: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Wicket-Keeper), Rahmat Shah, Ibrahim Zadran, Middle Orders: Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain), Azmatullah Omarzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Lower Order: Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad, Fazalhaq Farooqi
Bottom Line
Bangladesh will also start as favourites in the third match, considering Afghanistan's current lack of self-confidence. Afghanistan will have a mountain to climb in the final match If they were to overcome Bangladesh in this match. All the Afghani players will have to believe in themselves that they can defeat Bangladesh in the third ODI match of the BAN vs AFG 2022 ODI series.
Read Hunting small targets helps me do well: Liton
ICC WC Super League Points Table: Bangladesh Dethrone England after Series Win over Afghanistan
The body language of the Bangladesh team in the second match of the series was different, indicating that the amazing comeback in the first ODI had an impact on the players. Oppositely, Afghanistan appeared to be lacking in confidence and unsure of what to accomplish in the field. Bangladesh clinched the series with a game to spare with this win. They have also surpassed England to grab the top spot in the ongoing ICC World Cup Super League points standings. The current state of the CWC Super League and the second match report are discussed in this article.
Current Scenario of the ICC Cricket World Cup Super League
Bangladesh have topped the CWC Super League with a total of 100 points after 14 games. Bangladesh had 80 points prior to the series, 15 points fewer than England. Bangladesh gained 20 points and climbed up to first place after winning two consecutive matches against Afghanistan. Bangladesh can only expect to expand their lead in the points standings with one game remaining in the ongoing ODI series.
Read PM congratulates Tigers on winning 2nd ODI vs Afghanistan and sealing series
On the other hand, Afghanistan are in seventh place with 60 points after eight matches. They have dropped to one spot because of net run rates. Afghanistan suffered their first defeat in the CWC Super League in this series against Bangladesh. They had won six consecutive games in the league prior to this.
England are in second place with 95 points, followed by India, Ireland, and Sri Lanka. Australia, Afghanistan, and the West Indies are in sixth, seventh, and eighth places, respectively. Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand are ranked ninth, tenth, and twelfth. The top eight teams in the CWC Super League points table will automatically qualify for the World Cup 2023.
Read:Liton-Mushfiqur partnership ensure series win against Afghanistan
Top eight teams of ICC ODI World Cup Super League Points Table (as of February 25)
Position
Team
Matches
Win
Loss
Points
NRR
1
Bangladesh
14
10
4
100
0.422
2
England
15
9
5
95
0.838
3
India
12
8
4
79
0.416
4
Ireland
18
6
10
68
-0.355
5
Sri Lanka
18
6
11
62
-0.031
6
Australia
9
6
3
60
0.633
7
Afghanistan
8
6
2
60
0.344
8
West Indies
15
5
10
50
-0.972
Source: https://www.icc-cricket.com/cricket-world-cup-super-league/standings
Bangladesh-Afghanistan ODI Series 2022: Second Match Report
Bangladesh chose to bat first in the second One-Day International against Afghanistan on Friday in order to set up a big total. Bangladesh scored more than 300 runs to defend thanks to Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim's record-breaking 202-run third-wicket stand. Mushfiqur Rahim and Tamim Iqbal had Bangladesh's previous best third-wicket partnership (178).
Read:Domingo eyes to grab the series in 2nd ODI vs Afghanistan
Top five third-wicket partnership of Bangladesh in ODI
Partners
Runs
Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim
202
Mushfiqur Rahim and Tamim Iqbal
178
Anamul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim
174
Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan
142
Mohammad Ashraful and Raqibul Hasan
141
Source: https://www.espncricinfo.com/
Bangladesh finally finished on 306/4 in their allocated 50 overs. Liton Das scored his fifth ODI century in the match and his first against Afghanistan. Liton struck 136 from 126 balls Before losing his wicket in the 47th over. On the other hand, Mushfiqur Rahim scored 86 runs with the bat.
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Bangladesh Start as Favourites
Bangladesh had had no big problems when it came to defending the huge total. Afghanistan were bowled out for 218 runs in 45.1 overs. For the Afghans, opener Rahmat Shah scored 52 runs, while Najibullah Zadran scored 54 runs. Taskin Ahmed and Shakib Al Hasan took the most wickets for Bangladesh, each with two. Liton Das was named player of the match for his outstanding batting performance.
Aftermath
Bangladesh dominated Afghanistan in the second One-Day International of the series, displaying their true potential in the format. Bangladesh can only expect to improve as a team and become a competitive one before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 with this set of players. In addition, Bangladesh are in a great position in the Super League for a direct berth in the next World Cup. On the other hand, Afghanistan have shown all through the series that they need to improve significantly in the ODI format if they are to finish in the top eight of the CWC Super League points table. The third ODI in the BAN vs AFG 2022 series will be played at the ZACS, Chattogram on Monday (February 28).
Read BAN vs AFG ODI Series 2022: Five Unique Records Broken in the First Match
Hunting small targets helps me do well: Liton
Bangladesh opener Liton Das said hunting small targets rather than thinking for something big helped him do well in the second ODI against Afghanistan on Friday in Chattogram.
Liton smashed his fifth ODI ton in this match, which eventually helped the Tigers to ensure the series win with a match to go on February 28 at the same venue.
Read:Liton-Mushfiqur partnership ensure series win against Afghanistan
The batter piled up 136 off 126 balls with 16 fours and two sixes. It was his second-best innings in the format after 176 not out against Zimbabwe in 2020.
After this spectacular ton in the Asia Cup final against India in 2018, Liton had suffered long patch of inconsistency. He did well every now and then but was lacking consistency which was the main concern about him.
“The main target was to bat for at least 30-35 overs,” Liton told the broadcaster after the match. “I was playing in ODIs after a long time. But my mindset was the same. The mindset of batting for a long time helped me go for small targets that were in my mind.”
Liton hit 136 in this match— his fifth ton in ODIs. He and Mushfiqur Rahim added 202 runs in the third-wicket partnership— the biggest partnership in this stand for Bangladesh so far. Riding on this pair, Bangladesh posted 306 which has proved to be too good for Afghanistan.
Read:Domingo eyes to grab the series in 2nd ODI vs Afghanistan
“The way Liton and Mushfqiur batted was brilliant,” Tamim Iqbal, Bangladesh captain and Liton’s opening partner told the broadcaster. “But we failed to do well in the death overs. Our bowlers did their job so well.”
With this win, Bangladesh went to the top of the table of the World Cup Super League with 10 wins. Along the way, they surpassed England who have nine wins so far.