Bangladesh ODI skipper Tamim Iqbal believes that the upcoming full series against Afghanistan at home is going to be a ‘tough and interesting’ one. The series will be divided into two phases, with one Test, three ODIs, and two T20Is. The one-off Test will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur from June 14.
Tamim expressed his concern about Afghanistan’s strong bowling line-up, but he hopes that Bangladesh will be able to prepare themselves for the task. He said, “We are beginning with the Test, and then we will prepare for the ODIs. But for now, our focus is on the Test match.”
The second phase of the series will resume in Chattogram, with all three ODIs scheduled to be held in the port city’s Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. The first ODI will be played on July 5. Afghanistan are currently on a three-ODI tour to Sri Lanka and have already won their opening game by six wickets to lead the series 1-0 against the hosts.
Tamim brought to mind the Afghans’ recent form and said the upcoming series will be interesting for the Tigers. “I think Afghanistan is a quality team. Did you see their performance today? We will have to perform in all three departments against Afghanistan,” Tamim added.
Bangladesh has already started their pre-series camp on May 29 under the supervision of assistant coach Nic Pothas. The Tigers will begin skill training on June 4 after head coach Chandika Hathurusingha arrives.