Three Pakistan players to make ODI debuts against Bangladesh: Details
What's the story
Pakistan's captain, Shaheen Afridi, has announced that his team is set to field three debutants in the first ODI against Bangladesh. And all three players are expected to bat in the top order. The three-match series will be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium from March 11. Afridi announced the same at the pre-series press conference on Tuesday.
Team composition
Six uncapped players in the squad
Pakistan included six uncapped players in their squad for the series: Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, and Shamyl Hussain. Afridi revealed that Farhan and Sadaqat will open the innings, while Shamyl will bat at number three. He expressed hope that these debutants would show their skills and play their own game.
Player potential
Afridi confident of debutants' abilities
Afridi expressed his confidence in the debutants, saying they are not just being looked at for one series but with an eye on the future. He said their experience of playing in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) could help them adjust quickly to local conditions. "They have experience playing here. They have played the Bangladesh league here," said Afridi.
Exclusion
Afridi on Babar Azam's exclsion
On the other hand, Afridi shed light on senior batter Babar Azam's exclusion. "Look, no one was dropped for this series," Afridi said. "We just want to give opportunity for our youngsters. They also are our future." Babar, who was pushed to the middle order for the 2026 T20 World Cup, was far from his best. In six matches, he only managed to score 91 runs at an average of 22.75 and a strike rate of 112.34.
Bowling strategy
Afridi backs pace attack
Afridi also backed Pakistan's pace attack, saying conditions could help fast bowlers. "The Pakistan team is known for fast bowling," he said. "We will definitely rely on our pace attack, though the spinners will also play their part in the team's success." He added that the wicket could offer some help for fast bowlers, but he would assess it again today before making a final decision with team management.