Afghanistan will host Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series in the UAE this November, replacing an earlier planned all-format tour due to climatic concerns from the Bangladesh Cricket Board. Scheduled matches are set for November 6, 9, and 11, with both teams viewing the series as essential preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy in February 2024.
Afghanistan is poised to host Bangladesh for a three-match One Day International (ODI) series in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this November. While the specific stadiums for the matches have yet to be established, this arrangement replaces an earlier planned all-format tour that had been scheduled earlier this year in accordance with the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Future Tours Programme. The decision to limit the series to ODIs comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) opted against traveling to the UAE and India, citing concerns over the temperature conditions in both locations. Consequently, the ODIs are slated to take place on November 6, 9, and 11. The Afghanistan Cricket Board emphasized the significance of this limited series, stating, “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.” Meanwhile, at a recent Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting in Malaysia, BCB president Faruque Ahmed confirmed discussions with officials from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) regarding the potential for these ODI matches. In the context of recent performances, Bangladesh has thus far played only three ODIs this year, with an additional series against the West Indies scheduled later in the year. Conversely, Afghanistan is currently showcasing impressive form, having recently captured significant attention with their first victory against a top-five ICC-ranked team, South Africa, in a series held in the UAE. Afghanistan secured convincing wins in the first two matches of that series, triumphing by six wickets and 177 runs, before the Proteas claimed victory in the final match.
The upcoming ODI series between Afghanistan and Bangladesh represents a vital component of both teams’ preparations for the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which will be hosted in Pakistan. Initially, a more comprehensive tour was planned, but logistical challenges related to travel and climate have necessitated a more focused series limited to ODIs. The BCB’s concerns regarding the temperature in UAE and India have prompted this adjustment, reflecting the logistical considerations often involved in international cricket engagements. Furthermore, Afghanistan’s recent success and momentum from their historic T20 World Cup participation add to the significance of this series in their journey towards the Champions Trophy.
In summary, Afghanistan’s hosting of Bangladesh for a three-match ODI series in the UAE is a strategic adaptation following climate-related considerations. It not only serves as key preparation for both teams ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy but also highlights Afghanistan’s rising prominence in international cricket following their recent successes. The series promises to deliver competitive matches as both nations gear up for future challenges.
Original Source: thenewsmill.com
