The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, set to take place in the UAE.

This squad selection sees several notable decisions and some new faces, with fast bowler Nahid Rana making his way into the side as the only uncapped player. Rana’s pace has earned him a spot, providing Bangladesh an additional option in their bowling attack. Meanwhile, Mehidy Hasan Miraz has been named vice-captain, while Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the side in this series, reflecting BCB’s focus on a youthful and balanced team.

Experienced all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is absent from the lineup, which places added importance on Miraz’s role, particularly with his dual capabilities in both batting and spin bowling. Litton Das, one of Bangladesh’s experienced batter, also misses out on this series as he recovers from a fever that kept him out of the recent Test series against South Africa. Litton’s absence opens the door for other batters to step up, with Soumya Sarkar and Tanzid Hasan Tamim likely to bolster the top-order. Zakir Hasan, who has only one ODI cap from last year, makes his return, potentially adding depth to the batting lineup.

The bowling squad welcomes Nasum Ahmed, who returns to the ODI fold, adding spin variety alongside Mehidy and young leg-spinner Rishad Hossain. In contrast, Taijul Islam is not part of the squad this time, as the team explores different spin options. The Bangladesh team will fly out to Dubai in two groups over the weekend, with the ODIs scheduled for November 6, 9, and 11 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, one of the UAE’s most iconic grounds.

Bangladesh ODI Squad for Afghanistan Series: Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Zakir Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (Captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hassan Miraz (Vice Captain), Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.