With the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for next year, Bangladesh is seeking every opportunity to fine-tune their preparations. As part of their efforts, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is negotiating a bilateral ODI series with Afghanistan, possibly slated for November. The series is seen as a crucial step before the prestigious global event, marking a significant return of the Champions Trophy after a seven-year hiatus.

Bangladesh's official Future Tours Programme (FTP) includes just one more ODI series ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, a three-match series against the West Indies. However, BCB President Faruque Ahmed revealed that discussions are underway with Afghanistan to organize an additional series before the Tigers head to the Caribbean. This additional series, if confirmed, will take place in the second and third weeks of November, hosted by Afghanistan.

The BCB president, while speaking to the media, shared, “We are trying to squeeze in three ODIs against Afghanistan before we fly to the West Indies. Talks are in progress, and Kuala Lumpur has been proposed as a potential venue.”

If successful, this would give Bangladesh six ODIs before they step into the Champions Trophy, offering crucial match practice. The Afghan cricket board is equally eager to finalize the series, as they too are looking to sharpen their team’s skills ahead of the Champions Trophy.

The official FTP schedule for Bangladesh features a series against the West Indies, including two Test matches, three T20Is, and three ODIs. The ODI segment of the tour will be Bangladesh's final international appearance before the Champions Trophy. Notably, West Indies and Sri Lanka failed to qualify for this edition of the tournament, making the series even more pivotal for Bangladesh.

For the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, the preliminary groupings suggest Bangladesh will compete in Group A alongside India, Pakistan, and New Zealand. Afghanistan, on the other hand, is expected to face Australia, England, and South Africa in Group B. Bangladesh’s recent series win against Pakistan has boosted their confidence, but the team is well aware of the tough road ahead in what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.

Having reached the semi-finals in their last Champions Trophy appearance, Bangladesh will aim to make an impact once again. However, facing powerhouse teams like India and Pakistan in the group stages will present a stern test. Nonetheless, head coach Chandika Hathurusingha and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto remain optimistic about their chances.

Despite India’s objections, the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is still set to be hosted in Pakistan, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming competition.