Match Timing: 07 October 2023 10:30
Venue: HPCA Stadium, Dharamsala
Amidst internal conflicts, Bangladesh faces a daunting task in their World Cup opener against Afghanistan, with both teams aiming for a breakthrough campaign after years of high-level experience. Bangladesh, traditionally competitive in white-ball formats, has been plagued by discord between its key players, skipper Shakib al Hasan and Tamim Iqbal. Tamim's exclusion from the World Cup squad sparked a public feud, leading to verbal spats and accusations. Injuries to several players have further complicated Bangladesh's preparations, as they seek consistency in ODIs.
Despite the challenges, Bangladesh boasts experienced players like Shakib, pacer Mustafizur Rahman, and wicketkeeper-batters Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das, along with emerging talents such as Najmul Shanto and Taskin Ahmed. Their spin bowling unit, featuring Shakib, Mehidy Miraz, Mahedi Hasan, and Nasum Ahmed, poses a threat on helpful surfaces. The fast-bowling unit, led by veteran Mustafizur, also adds depth.
However, with Tamim absent, Bangladesh faces the task of finding a suitable second opener. Meanwhile, Afghanistan, since gaining ICC full membership in 2017, has made progress as a cricketing nation but seeks a breakout performance in global events. Despite their modest World Cup record, they have challenged heavyweights like India and Pakistan in past editions. Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan relies on spinners Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Noor Ahmad. Nabi's all-round skills and Mujeeb's new ball expertise are crucial for Afghanistan, who must maintain batting consistency to make an impact.
Predicted XIs
Bangladesh
Tanzid Hasan
Litton Das
Najmul Hossain Shanto
Shakib Al Hasan (Captain)
Towhid Hridoy
Mushfiqur Rahim (Wicket-Keeper)
Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Nasum Ahmed/Mahmudullah
Taskin Ahmed
Hasan Mahmud
Mustafizur Rahman
Afghanistan
Rahmanullah Gurbaz(Wicket-Keeper)
Ibrahim Zadran
Rahmat Shah
Hashmatullah Shahidi (Captain)
Najibullah Zadran
Mohammad Nabi
Azmatullah Omarzai
Rashid Khan
Mujeeb Ur Rahman
Fazalhaq Farooqi
Naveen-ul-Haq/Noor Ahmad
Fantasy XI
Shakib Al Hasan (Captain)
Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Vice-Captain)
Litton Das
Najmul Hossain Shanto
Rahmat Shah
Mushfiqur Rahim
Mohammad Nabi
Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Taskin Ahmed
Rashid Khan
Fazalhaq Farooqi
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