Bangladesh have unveiled a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, set to take place in Dhaka starting March 11. The squad features a notable comeback for all-rounder Afif Hossain, who returns to the ODI setup after more than a year on the sidelines. Led by Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh will look to make the most of home conditions when they face Pakistan in what promises to be a competitive bilateral contest.
Afif Hossain makes long-awaited return to ODI setup
The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the return of Afif, who last represented Bangladesh in ODIs in December 2024. The left-handed batter and handy off-spin option had been out of the national setup for a considerable period but has now earned another opportunity following consistent performances in domestic cricket.
Afif’s inclusion strengthens Bangladesh’s middle order, giving the team more flexibility with both bat and ball. Known for his ability to accelerate the scoring rate during the middle overs, the 25-year-old could play a key role against Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Core batting unit retained despite form concerns
Bangladesh have largely retained their core batting group from their previous ODI assignment against West Indies in October 2025. Litton Das, who has struggled to produce big scores in the format recently, has still been backed by the selectors. The team management appears to have shown faith in the experienced opener’s ability to rediscover his rhythm.
Najmul Hossain Shanto and Tawhid Hridoy remain vital components of the batting lineup, while Soumya Sarkar and Saif Hassan provide additional options at the top of the order. Young opener Tanzid Hasan also keeps his place as Bangladesh continue to invest in emerging talent.
Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan has also retained his spot from the previous squad, signaling the selectors’ intention to maintain stability in the middle-order setup.
Injury setbacks rule out key players
Bangladesh will, however, be without a few players due to injuries and selection decisions. Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud is currently recovering from a tennis elbow issue, while Tanzim Hasan Sakib remains sidelined with a back injury. Both players are expected to regain full fitness by the end of the month.
Meanwhile, Nurul Hasan, Jaker Ali Anik and Shamim Hossain have not been included in the squad. Their absence opens the door for others to step up and make an impact during the series.
Bowling attack led by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman
Bangladesh’s pace attack will be spearheaded by Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, two of the side’s most experienced bowlers in the format. They will be supported by Shoriful Islam and rising pacer Nahid Rana, providing the hosts with multiple seam options.
Spin will continue to be a key weapon on Dhaka’s slow surfaces. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz will lead the spin department alongside Rishad Hossain and Tanvir Islam, giving Bangladesh a balanced bowling unit suited to home conditions.
All three matches of the ODI series will be played at the Shere Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The opening game will take place on March 11, followed by the second ODI on March 13 and the final match on March 15.
Bangladesh ODI squad for Pakistan series: Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain), Soumya Sarkar, Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Afif Hossain, Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Nahid Rana.
