Bangladesh have unveiled a powerful 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI sequence in opposition to Pakistan, set to happen in Dhaka beginning March 11. The squad includes a notable comeback for all-rounder Afif Hossain, who returns to the ODI setup after greater than a yr on the sidelines. Led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh will look to benefit from residence situations after they face Pakistan in what guarantees to be a aggressive bilateral contest.
Afif Hossain makes long-awaited return to ODI setup
The most important speaking level from the squad announcement is the return of Afif, who final represented Bangladesh in ODIs in December 2024. The left-handed batter and helpful off-spin choice had been out of the nationwide setup for a substantial interval however has now earned one other alternative following constant performances in home cricket.
Afif’s inclusion strengthens Bangladesh’s center order, giving the crew extra flexibility with each bat and ball. Recognized for his capacity to speed up the scoring charge through the center overs, the 25-year-old may play a key function in opposition to Pakistan’s bowling assault.
Core batting unit retained regardless of kind issues
Bangladesh have largely retained their core batting group from their earlier ODI task in opposition to West Indies in October 2025. Litton Das, who has struggled to supply huge scores within the format lately, has nonetheless been backed by the selectors. The crew administration seems to have proven religion within the skilled opener’s capacity to rediscover his rhythm.
Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tawhid Hridoy stay very important parts of the batting lineup, whereas Soumya Sarkar and Saif Hassan present extra choices on the prime of the order. Younger opener Tanzid Hasan additionally retains his place as Bangladesh proceed to spend money on rising expertise.
Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan has additionally retained his spot from the earlier squad, signaling the selectors’ intention to take care of stability within the middle-order setup.
Damage setbacks rule out key gamers
Bangladesh will, nonetheless, be with no few gamers resulting from accidents and choice selections. Quick bowler Hasan Mahmud is at present recovering from a tennis elbow concern, whereas Tanzim Hasan Sakib stays sidelined with a again damage. Each gamers are anticipated to regain full health by the tip of the month.
In the meantime, Nurul Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik and Shamim Hossain haven’t been included within the squad. Their absence opens the door for others to step up and make an affect through the sequence.
Additionally READ: Fakhar Zaman to overlook Pakistan’s ODI tour of Bangladesh – right here’s the rationale
Bowling assault led by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman
Bangladesh’s tempo assault can be spearheaded by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, two of the facet’s most skilled bowlers within the format. They are going to be supported by Shoriful Islam and rising pacer Nahid Rana, offering the hosts with a number of seam choices.
Spin will proceed to be a key weapon on Dhaka’s gradual surfaces. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz will lead the spin division alongside Rishad Hossain and Tanvir Islam, giving Bangladesh a balanced bowling unit suited to residence situations.
All three matches of the ODI sequence can be performed on the Shere Bangla Nationwide Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The opening sport will happen on March 11, adopted by the second ODI on March 13 and the ultimate match on March 15.
Bangladesh ODI squad for Pakistan sequence: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Afif Hossain, Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.
Additionally READ: Bangladesh Cricket Board unveils central contracts for the 2026 season


