The first ODI between Pakistan and Bangladesh is scheduled for March 11, 2026, at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. This match is particularly significant as it marks Bangladesh’s return to international cricket after they were excluded from the T20 World Cup due to political tensions with India.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi has confirmed that three players will make their ODI debuts in this match, including Sahibzada Farhan, who has been a top performer in T20s and List ‘A’ cricket for Pakistan. The match will start at 2:15 PM Bangladesh Standard Time, with live streaming available in India on the FanCode app and website, although there will be no telecast.
Current Developments
Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bowl first, setting the stage for an exciting encounter. The probable XI for Bangladesh includes Saif Hassan, Soumya Sarkar, and Mustafizur Rahman. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s lineup features Sahibzada Farhan, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, with notable absences including Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Saim Ayub, who have been dropped from the team for this series.
Shaheen Afridi expressed excitement about the new players, stating, “There will be like three debuts, of course. Sahibzada is the top performer in T20s and also in List ‘A’ cricket for Pakistan.” He added, “We are excited to see them play for Pakistan, not just for one series but with the future in mind.” He also acknowledged the strength of the Bangladesh team, noting, “Bangladesh are a good side, and they played well against the West Indies. But we are also ready.”
Looking Ahead
This match is part of a three-match ODI series between Pakistan and Bangladesh. Observers are keen to see how both teams perform, especially given Pakistan’s recent success, having won their last two home ODI series against South Africa and Sri Lanka. As the match approaches, cricket fans are eager for the action to unfold.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this series for both teams, but it is clear that the stakes are high as they compete for supremacy in the ODI format.
