The ACB will host Bangladesh for three ODIs in the UAE this November. Originally planned as an all-format tour, the series was limited to ODIs after Bangladesh declined to tour previously due to extreme heat. The matches are crucial for preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2024. Following these ODIs, Bangladesh will tour the Caribbean while Afghanistan has a busy schedule ahead, including matches against Zimbabwe.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced that it will host Bangladesh for a three-match One Day International (ODI) series in the United Arab Emirates this coming November. While the exact locations for these matches have yet to be disclosed, this series is a restructured format of what was initially planned as an all-format tour between the two nations. This adjustment follows Bangladesh’s earlier decision to decline a tour in the summer due to extreme temperatures in the UAE and India, leading to a revised schedule that includes only the three ODIs on November 6, 9, and 11. The ACB emphasizes the importance of this ODI series for both teams as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy set to take place in Pakistan in February next year. BCB President Faruque Ahmed has expressed a proactive interest in scheduling additional matches against Afghanistan to enhance competitive experience, particularly as Bangladesh has had limited ODI opportunities this year. Currently, they have played only three ODIs in 2024, with plans for further matches against the West Indies later this year. Following the series with Afghanistan, Bangladesh will embark on an extensive tour of the Caribbean, encompassing two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is, which is expected to provide more preparation ahead of the Champions Trophy. In contrast, Afghanistan has already played eight ODIs this year and will continue their busy schedule after facing Bangladesh by taking on Zimbabwe in a full series.
The Afghanistan-Cricket-Bangladesh relations in terms of cricket scheduling have been influenced by logistical challenges and climatic conditions. In June 2023, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) declined a proposed tour to the UAE, advocating for player welfare amid soaring summer temperatures. Subsequently, the original format of the tour was modified, emphasizing the significance of ODI matches in light of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy set for early 2024.
In conclusion, the ODI series between Afghanistan and Bangladesh is highly anticipated and serves a significant purpose as both teams prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy. Despite previous scheduling conflicts, the ACB and BCB have reached a crucial agreement, allowing both teams to enhance their experience and competitiveness ahead of important international fixtures, including subsequent tours for Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
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