Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Friday announced 15-member squad for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, with Najmul Hossain Shanto stepping in as captain and absence of star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan.
Soumya Sarkar and left-arm spinner Nasum Ahmed have returned to the national squad while Liton Das has been dropped. Fast bowler Nahid Rana has earned his maiden call-up marking his first opportunity in the ODI lineup.
The three-match ODI series, scheduled to begin on November 6, will take place in the UAE, following Bangladesh's recent Test series against South Africa at home.
Bangladesh Squad for Afghanistan Series: Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Zakir Hasan, Najmul Hossain (Captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, Towhid Hridoy, Zaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (Vice-Captain), Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shariful Islam, Nahid Rana.
Speculation had been circulating about Shakib's participation with his potential absence becoming clearer in recent statements by BCB President Faruk Ahmed. He indicated Shakib's need for some additional time to prepare before rejoining the team suggesting that while Shakib's participation was not entirely ruled out, it was unlikely.
This series will serve as a chance for new players and returning talents to prove themselves under Shanto's leadership as Bangladesh takes on Afghanistan.
