Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Prediction, 1st ODI – Who will win today’s match between AFG vs BAN?

Afghanistan (AFG) will face Bangladesh (BAN) in a three-match series, with the first ODI scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Earlier, Bangladesh whitewashed Afghanistan in the three-match T20I leg of the tour.

After a disappointing outing in the 20-over phase against the same opposition, Afghanistan will look to bounce back and make a stronger impression in the 50-over format. Hashmatullah Shahidi will lead the team, supported by experienced campaigners such as Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, will enter the series on a high after their T20I series triumph. They will aim to continue their dominance over Afghanistan and finish the tour on a strong note. Mehidy Hasan Miraz will captain the Bangla Tigers, with Najmul Hossain Shanto, Jaker Ali, and Mustafizur Rahman included in the squad.

AFG vs BAN Match Details

Pitch Report

The Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi generally favours the bowlers, with pacers finding some movement early on. Bowlers can move the ball with ease and aim to pick up a few early wickets to trouble the opposition. Batters, meanwhile, need to be cautious, avoiding loose shots that could lead to cheap dismissals.

AFG vs BAN Head to Head

AFG vs BAN Predicted Playing XIs

Afghanistan

Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Hasmatullah Shahidi (c), Rahmat Shah (vc), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, AM Ghazanfar, Abdollah Ahmadzai, Bilal Sami

Bangaldesh

Mohammad Naim, Towhid Hridoy, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Jaker Ali (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Rishad Hossain, Saif Hassan, Shamim Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed

Probable Best Performers from AFG vs BAN

Probable Best Batter: Najmul Hossain Shanto

The left-handed batter Najmul Hossain Shanto could be a key player in this clash. He averages 33 in ODIs and has shown good form recently in the 50-over format. His contributions in the middle order will be crucial, as he can anchor the innings during the middle overs and guide his team toward victory. Having left the captaincy, the reduced pressure may also help the southpaw thrive against a formidable Afghan bowling unit on Wednesday.

Probable Best Bowler: Rashid Khan

Afghanistan’s star spinner Rashid Khan could be the key bowler in this clash. He is just one wicket away from 200 ODI scalps, and his recent form will be crucial to watch. Regardless of the pitch conditions, Rashid's mastery with variations makes him someone to watch out for every time he takes the ball in his hand. A full 10-over spell from Rashid could be match-defining and has the potential to turn the game in favour of the hosts.

Today's Match Prediction: Team batting first to win the match

Scenario 1

• Afghanistan win the toss and opt to bat first
• Powerplay: 45-55
• AFG: 250-260
• Afghanistan win the match

Scenario 2

• Bangladesh win the toss and opt to bat first
• Powerplay: 50-60
• BAN: 255-265
• Bangladesh win the match

Disclaimer: The 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.