As Pakistan’s ODI series takes place in Australia, Pakistan commentator Ramiz Raja will not be part of that action. Instead, Raja will lend his voice to the much-anticipated Afghanistan-Bangladesh ODI series.

Starting today, this three-match series is set to captivate fans, although it lacks any Bangladeshi commentators—an unexpected move, especially with the absence of seasoned names like Athar Ali Khan and Shamim Chowdhury, who have long represented Bangladesh on the global stage.

Joining Raja in the commentary box are four other notable voices: Ahmad Farhad Fidai, Andrew Leonard, Brian Murgatroyd, and Devender Kumar. Together, they promise a fresh perspective on the matches held at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier today, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) released the commentary lineup along with the panel of match officials. In the officiating department, Afghan umpires are well-represented, with no Bangladeshi officials assigned. Instead, Afghan umpires Izzatullah Safi, Bismillah Jan Shinwari, and Ahmad Shah Durrani will officiate alongside Pakistan’s Ahsan Raza and England’s Alexander Wharf. Former Indian cricketer Javagal Srinath will serve as match referee across all three matches, ensuring a high standard of oversight.

The first ODI between Afghanistan and Bangladesh will begin at 4:00 p.m. Bangladesh Standard Time (BST) on Wednesday. The remaining two ODIs are scheduled for November 9 and 11, with all matches taking place in Sharjah.