Bangladesh are on the verge of a clean sweep against Afghanistan after winning all three of their previous away meetings one in the Asia Cup and two in the ongoing T20I series. The two sides will clash again today (October 5) in the third and final T20I in Sharjah. Having already secured the series with two straight victories, Zakir Ali’s team now aims to complete a whitewash.
While Bangladesh look to extend their dominance, Afghanistan will be desperate to salvage some pride with a win. With the series result already sealed, the Tigers might experiment with their playing XI. Sheikh Mahedi Hasan, who missed out in the first two matches, could finally get his chance, possibly replacing Rishad Hossain.
In the pace department, Tanjim Hasan Shakib may partner Mustafizur Rahman, while Mohammad Saifuddin and Shariful Islam are expected to retain their places. The opening pair of Tanjid Hasan Tamim and Parvez Hossain Emon performed well in the first match but faltered in the second. Still, the team management is likely to back the young duo for another opportunity.
Bangladesh vs Afghanistan
Saif Hasan is expected to bat at number three, followed by captain Zaker Ali Anik at number four. Shamim Hossain Patwary should continue at number five, and Nurul Hasan Sohan — the standout performer in the first two games — will take the number six spot. Sohan’s consistent finishing ability has become a major strength for Bangladesh, rescuing the team in tight situations.
In the spin unit, Nasum Ahmed is likely to partner Mahedi Hasan. The match will begin at 8:30 PM Bangladesh time at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
| Bangladesh | Afghanistan |
|---|---|
| Tanjid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hasan, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Shamim Hossain Patwary, Zaker Ali Anik (c & wk), Sheikh Mahedi Hasan, Tanjim Hasan Shakib, Mohammad Saifuddin, Nasum Ahmed, Shariful Islam | Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sediqullah Atal, Ibrahim Zadran, Darwish Rasuli, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan (c), Noor Ahmed, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Farid Ahmed Malik, Abdullah Ahmedzai |