Probable Bangladesh XI for the second ODI against Afghanistan

Bangladesh will take on Afghanistan in the second ODI on Saturday evening (Bangladesh time) as they look to level the series after losing the first match. Trailing 1-0, the Tigers face a must-win encounter to stay alive in the series.

Batting struggles cost Bangladesh the opener, but the team management may continue to back openers Tanzid Hasan and Saif Hasan despite their low scores. Najmul Hossain Shanto is expected to bat at number three.

Naeem Sheikh has joined the squad after resolving visa issues, although breaking into the playing XI may be difficult. The middle order includes Towhid Hridoy, who scored a fifty in the first match, along with captain Mehedi Hasan Miraz and Zaker Ali, who failed to make an impact previously but remains trusted by the management. Wicketkeeper Nurul Hasan Sohan is also in consideration.

After a rest, leg-spinner Rishad Hossain may return to the squad, potentially reducing the team’s pace options. Mustafizur Rahman is set to make a comeback, likely partnered by Tanzim Hasan Sakib in the pace attack.

Bangladesh started the tour strongly by whitewashing Afghanistan in the T20 series, but the first ODI defeat by five wickets has put pressure on the team. A win in this second match is essential if the Tigers are to keep their series hopes alive.

Probable Bangladesh XI:
Tanzid Hasan, Saif Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mehedi Hasan Miraz (c), Towhid Hridoy, Zaker Ali, Nurul Hasan Sohan, Tanvir Islam, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib