In the 4th match of the Asia Cup 2023, Bangladesh faces a critical match against Afghanistan. Bangladesh’s recent loss to Sri Lanka puts them in a must-win situation to stay in the tournament, while Afghanistan aims to recover from a series loss to Pakistan by securing a spot in the next round with a victory.
Bangladesh holds an 8-6 advantage in their rivalry and has the edge with more experienced players, making it intriguing to see if Afghanistan can bounce back from their recent setbacks.
THE VENUE FOR BANGLADESH – AFGHANISTAN MATCH
The match between Bangladesh and Afghanistan will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
The Lahore pitch is known for its limited bounce and minimal lateral movement, favoring bowlers who can maintain consistent line and length with variations.
Given the pitch’s slower nature, spinners might play a crucial role during the middle overs, with leg-spinners potentially having a greater impact than off-spinners.
Average 1st Inns score: 251
Average 2nd Inns score: 215
TEAM PREVIEW
BANGLADESH
Shakib al Hasan and his team are eager to move past their disappointing performance against Sri Lanka, where they suffered a batting collapse and lost by 5 wickets. This game is a make-or-break moment for them, especially considering their recent series loss to Afghanistan.
The team relies on its experienced players to step up. However, the absence of Litton Das due to injury is a significant setback. They look to Mohammad Naim and Tanzid Hasan to shine, along with Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, and Shakib in the middle order. Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahedi Hasan, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz form a strong batting lineup, aiming to score quickly.
The bowling unit delivered a commendable performance in the previous game while defending a low total. Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam are expected to provide an excellent start with the new ball. Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib, as the experienced bowlers, must play a crucial role. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mahedi Hasan are essential in supporting roles for the team’s success.
EXPECTED XI OF BANGLADESH v AFGHANISTAN
Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mohammad Naim, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman.
AFGHANISTAN
Afghanistan, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, faced a recent 0-3 series loss to Pakistan but gained confidence from their victory against Bangladesh in Bangladesh. They see this match as an opportunity to secure a spot in the next round, knowing that Bangladesh is under immense pressure.
The opening duo of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran has been in good form this year and will aim for a strong start. The experienced middle order, featuring Rahmat Shah, Shahidi, and Najibullah Zadran, is expected to contribute with the bat. The team also has hard-hitters like Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, and Gulbadin Naib, making their lineup formidable.
Afghanistan’s bowling unit, led by Mujeeb ur Rahman and Fazalhaq Farooqi, needs to secure early wickets, considering Bangladesh’s unsettled opening pair. Rashid Khan and Nabi aim to capitalize on the pitch conditions and create opportunities. Gulbadin Naib and Rahmat Shah provide additional bowling options.
EXPECTED XI OF AFGHANISTAN v BANGLADESH
Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Rashid Khan, Mujib ur Rahman, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Mohammad Nabi, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Najibullah Zadran, Noor Ahmed, Gulbadin Naib
PREDICTION FOR THE MATCH
Bangladesh has a strong ODI team, and they will look to use their experience. We expect a close game, but Bangladesh has a slight edge.
Bangladesh to beat Afghanistan in a Close Contest.
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