Bangladesh vs Afghanistan 1st ODI Prediction – Who will win the match between BAN vs AFG?

Bangladesh is set to host Afghanistan for a three-match ODI series and this will be an exciting contest with both sides having some quality names trying to prove their stature in international cricket. The rivalry between the two sides have been going around for a while now and their development in the international circuit is visible as well.

Bangladesh is coming off a historic Test series against New Zealand and will be riding high on confidence. With the return of Shakib Al Hasan, the side looks very much balanced and he can do the bulk of the run-scoring as well. Bangladesh last played an ODI way back in June last year against Zimbabwe and the bowling attack looks pretty much sorted for the home side with Mustafizur leading the way.

As far as Afghanistan is concerned, they have a power-packed side with explosive options at the top and their spin attack is among the best in the world with Rashid Khan, Mujeeb and Nabi. They have some experience in the middle order as well with Najibullah Zadran and skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi taking those places and they are coming off a 3-0 victory against Netherlands last month.

Match Details

Bangladesh vs Afghanistan 1st ODI

Venue: Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Chattogram

Date & Time: February 23rd at 10:30 AM IST and 11:00 AM local time

Live Streaming: Fancode

Pitch Report:

The day game rules out the dew factor which could be crucial in the toss and teams will now have an equal hand in getting the job done. The ground hasn’t been easy to put up big scores on board and chasing has been the mantra for the captain that wins the toss. Spinners have always more effective at the ground than the fast bowlers and it will be a battle between the quality of spin between both sides.

Probable Playing XIs for BAN vs AFG

Bangladesh

Liton Das(wk), Tamim Iqbal(c), Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Mahmudullah, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman

Afghanistan

Rahmanullah Gurbaz(wk), Riaz Hassan, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Yamin Ahmadzai, Fareed Ahmad

BAN vs AFG Head to Head

Total Matches – 8, Bangladesh – 5, Afghanistan -3

Probable Top Performers

Probable best batter of this match: Rahmanullah Gurbaz

Rahmanullah Gurbaz has had a sensational start to his international career so far especially in the ODI format where he has scored two centuries in the six games he has played. The 20-year-old came into the side on the back of huge reputation and he has been in good form in the ongoing PSL 2022 as well. The right-hander can do the wicket keeping duties and doesn’t shy away from playing his shots.

Probable best bowler of the Match: Rashid Khan

Rashid Khan is always a threat against any opponent and he will enjoy bowling in the spin friendly conditions in Bangladesh. The leg spinner is rated to be among the best in the world and he has picked up 146 wickets in 77 games so far at an unbelievable average of 18.5. There is no doubt about the amount of damage he can create with the ball and Bangladesh is expected to have a tough time facing him.

Today’s Match Prediction: Afghanistan to win the match.

Disclaimer: This prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision