The highly anticipated 1st ODI of the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh series in the UAE is set to deliver an exciting showdown as these two competitive teams face off in Sharjah. Both Afghanistan and Bangladesh bring distinct strengths to the table, with Afghanistan seeking to leverage home-like conditions in Sharjah while Bangladesh relies on experience and resilience. Here’s an in-depth preview with team analysis, pitch report, weather forecast, and our prediction.
Match Details
- Match: AFG vs BAN, 1st ODI, Afghanistan vs Bangladesh in UAE, 2024
- Date: Wednesday, November 06, 2024
- Time: 3:30 PM (IST)
- Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: Available on FanCode
Team Previews
Afghanistan Preview
Afghanistan, led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, enters the match with a confident squad blending young talent and seasoned players. With star players like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, Afghanistan’s bowling attack is their main strength, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz is expected to provide a solid start, while all-rounders like Azmatullah Omarzai and Gulbadin Naib add balance to the team.
Key Players:
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK): His explosive batting at the top will be crucial in setting a strong foundation.
- Rashid Khan: The spin wizard will look to exploit the conditions and pick up crucial wickets.
- Mohammad Nabi: With his all-round capabilities, Nabi will provide the stability needed in both batting and bowling.
Afghanistan Squad:
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Hashmatullah Shahidi (c), Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangeyalia Kharote, Allah Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Fareed Ahmad Malik, Ikram Alikhil, Darwish Rasooli, Sediqullah Atal, Noor Ahmad, Abdul Malik, Bilal Sami, Naveed Zadran
Bangladesh Preview
Bangladesh, under the leadership of Najmul Hossain Shanto, is known for their experienced core and fighting spirit. Veteran players like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah will be key in stabilizing the middle order. All-rounders such as Mehidy Hasan Miraz provide depth, while bowlers like Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed will aim to adapt quickly to Sharjah’s pitch conditions.
Key Players:
- Mushfiqur Rahim (WK): His experience and consistency are essential for Bangladesh’s stability in the middle order.
- Mahmudullah: Known for his finishing abilities, Mahmudullah’s role will be vital in setting or chasing a target.
- Mustafizur Rahman: His pace variations could be challenging for the Afghan batters on this pitch.
Bangladesh Squad:
Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Tanzid Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Towhid Hridoy, Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Zakir Hasan, Jaker Ali, Nasum Ahmed, Nahid Rana
Pitch and Weather Report
Pitch Report:
The Sharjah pitch is historically known for its slow, low bounce and has typically favored spin bowlers. Spinners will play a crucial role, especially in the middle overs, while batters will need to play patiently. A score around 250 could be competitive, but a first-innings total above 260 is considered challenging on this surface.
Weather Conditions:
Sharjah is expected to experience clear skies with temperatures around 32°C. Dew may play a role in the second innings, which could favor the team batting second and aid in chasing targets under lights.
Toss Prediction:
Winning the toss and opting to bat first would be a strategic choice to take advantage of the dry conditions early on, while the dew later may help the bowlers retain control.
Score Prediction
- If Afghanistan Bat First: 258+
- If Bangladesh Bat First: 221+
Winning Chances
- Afghanistan: 71%
- Bangladesh: 29%
Match Prediction
Afghanistan, with their spin-heavy attack and familiarity with Sharjah’s conditions, holds a strong advantage in this opening match. Although Bangladesh brings experienced players, Afghanistan’s lineup seems better suited to leverage the conditions and their in-form spinners may be the difference-maker.
Predicted Winner: Afghanistan Will Win
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.