Afghanistan now leads 1‑0 in their bilateral ODI series against Bangladesh, after a convincing win in the first match. The Afghan side chased a challenging total and secured a five‑wicket victory, building momentum for a potential third straight series win over the hosts. Bangladesh will need revamped batting to even the score and push the series to a thrilling finish.
The second ODI is set to be played on Saturday at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Ahmedabad (Narendra Modi Stadium). The match kicks off at 3 PM IST, with live coverage on Star Sports Network and an online stream available on Jio Hotstar. Fans can follow the action on TV or the app, ensuring no one misses the drama in this high‑stakes showdown.
Pitch and Weather
Sheikh Zayed’s pitch is known for a slower, spin‑friendly surface. Both teams showcased their spin bowlers’ skills in the first game, and a similar setup is expected here. Early in the innings, fast bowlers might find it easier to score, but the subtle turn can turn the tide in the later overs. According to match‑day statistics, the chasing side tends to win more often here, making the toss a crucial factor.
Saturday’s weather promise clear skies with humidity between 60% and 70%. Temperatures will drop to around 30 °C in the evening with breezes of about 6 km/h. These conditions should keep the pitch responsive for both batters and bowlers.
Recent Form and Head‑to‑Head
This match marks the 21st ODI encounter between Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Bangladesh holds a slight edge in the series, having won 11 of the previous 20 games while Afghanistan has claimed 9. In the last five ODIs, Afghanistan registered a win, a loss, a win, no result, and another win. Bangladesh, meanwhile, went win‑no result‑loss‑loss‑loss.
Key Players to Watch
Afghanistan
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – the wicketkeeper‑batsman, who proved his worth in the first ODI by steering Afghanistan to victory. He can dismantle opposition bowling when he finds his rhythm.
- Rashid Khan – the leg‑spinner is expected to take wickets and keep Bangladesh’s batting in check.
Bangladesh
- Towhid Hridoy – an emerging talent who is quick off the crease and can handle spin with aplomb. His recent form could swing a crucial innings.
- Tanzid Sakib – the guy with sharp speed and a clever slower delivery. His tightening of the bowling attack will test the Afghan batters.
Match Prediction
Bangladesh’s short‑format success in the T20I series did not translate into the 50‑over game. Afghanistan’s disciplined batting line‑up, experience at the crease, and potent spin attack give them an edge. However, Bangladesh’s bowlers have been reliable, and a collapse from Afghan batters could tilt the balance. The most likely outcome is a win for Afghanistan, but a hard‑fought contest is expected, with Bangladesh fighting to match the series scoreline.
Players, coaches, and fans will be eyeing this match for the next chapter in the Afghanistan–Bangladesh rivalry. The 2nd ODI promises thrilling cricket, intense competition, and a chance to vindicate Afghanistan’s bid for a third consecutive bilateral series win.
Source: ianslive
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