For the first time in 18 years, Bangladesh’s ODI lineup took the field without any of its long-standing senior trio: Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal, and Mushfiqur Rahim. The absence of these seasoned players marked a significant moment for Bangladesh cricket, as the nation looked to its younger talents for leadership. Despite the challenges, Bangladesh emerged victorious, defeating Afghanistan by 68 runs in the second ODI to level the three-match series at 1-1.

Bangladesh’s journey with the iconic "Fabulous Five"—the stalwarts Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, Shakib, Tamim, Mushfiqur, and Mahmudullah Riyad—has defined a generation. With Mashrafe already retired from international cricket and the others nearing the end of their careers, it was a rare sight to see Bangladesh line up without any of them. Shakib and Tamim were unavailable due to injury, and Mushfiqur was sidelined as well. This left the leadership mantle to young captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who proved his mettle both as a player and as a leader.

Shanto, who was awarded the Player of the Match, spoke candidly about the transition in the post-match press conference. “As you mentioned, the senior players are not here, and we need to start preparing for a time when they won’t always be there. Their presence certainly adds experience and confidence in the dressing room, but it’s not something we should rely on all the time. Now, it’s time for those of us who are here to step up and make our own contributions.”

Bangladesh’s victory in this match signifies a turning point, one where the newer generation is encouraged to perform without leaning on past stalwarts. With the series tied at 1-1, the decisive third ODI on November 11 will offer Bangladesh an opportunity to seal the series and build confidence in the team’s fresh faces.