This is one of the underrated match-ups in the tournament, with both teams looking to make a statement early on. While Bangladesh boasts a more experienced squad, Afghanistan has proven in recent years that they should not be underestimated. The showdown will take place on September 03, 2023, at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan.
The Bangladesh team is led by the dynamic Shakib Al Hasan, who is known for his all-around abilities on the pitch. His leadership, combined with the batting prowess of Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto make Bangladesh a formidable adversary. On the bowling front, they’ll rely heavily on Mustafizur Rahman and Mehidy Hasan’s spin.
Afghanistan, on the other hand, enters the contest with a few secret weapons of their own. The hard-hitting openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran are known for their aggressive batting style and will be crucial in this encounter. Afghanistan’s bowling attack, spearheaded by the spin duo of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, can cause plenty of issues for the Bangladeshi batsmen.
BAN vs. AFG: Weather & Pitch Report
The weather is supposed to be around 25-35 degrees, but could go as high as 40 degrees. Currently, the chances of rain are 0%.
Gaddafi Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium located in Lahore, Pakistan. It is the home ground of the Pakistan national cricket team and was established in 1959. The stadium has a seating capacity of 27,000 spectators and is one of the largest stadiums in Pakistan.
The pitch is known for being a batting paradise, with flat and true tracks that support stroke play. Spinners have found it difficult to find purchase on the surface due to its slower nature. The outfield is wide and fast, providing plenty of runs for both batsmen and bowlers alike.
BAN vs AFG: Head-to-Head (Asia Cup)
Matches: 14
Bangladesh: 8
Afghanistan: 6
BAN vs. AFG: Predicted Playing XIs
Bangladesh: Mohammad Naim, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan(c), Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz(w), Ibrahim Zadran, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Gulbadin Naib, Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazalhaq Farooqi
BAN vs. AFG: Top Fantasy Picks
Bangladesh: Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Tamim Iqbal, Mustafizur Rahman
Afghanistan: Mohammad Shahzad, Rahmat Shah, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman
BAN vs AFG Dream11 Playing XI
Wicketkeeper: Mushfiqur Rahim
Batsmen: Tamim Iqbal, Mahmudullah, Mohammad Shahzad, Rahmat Shah
All-rounders: Rashid Khan, Gulbadin Naib, Shakib Al Hasan
Bowlers: Mustafizur Rahman, Mehidy Hasan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Rashid Khan
Captain: Shakib Al Hasan
Vice-captain: Rashid Khan
Who will win BAN vs. AFG?
While both squads have their strengths, Bangladesh’s experience and balanced team composition give them a slight edge in this encounter. However, it would not be wise to underestimate Afghanistan, which can easily upset any opponent on their day.
