The Pakistan Squad for the Bangladesh ODI tour has been announced with big changes by the Pakistan Cricket Board. Star players Babar Azam and Saim Ayub have been dropped, while injured Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, and Naseem Shah are also missing. The three ODIs will be played on March 11, March 13, and March 15. Shaheen Shah Afridi will continue as captain. New players like Maaz Sadaqat, Abdul Samad, and Sahibzada Farhan were selected as Pakistan tests young talent.
Major Changes In Pakistan Squad For Bangladesh ODIs
The Pakistan Cricket Board made bold decisions by dropping experienced players like Babar Azam and Saim Ayub from the ODI squad. Injured opener Fakhar Zaman, along with Mohammad Nawaz and Naseem Shah, also missed selection. Haseebullah and Hasan Nawaz were excluded as well, showing that selectors wanted a fresh combination. These changes suggest Pakistan is trying new strategies and giving chances to players who performed well in domestic cricket and Pakistan Shaheens matches. The move has surprised fans but also created excitement about new faces representing the national team.
Six Uncapped Players Earn Big Opportunity
Pakistan’s squad included six uncapped players in the squad, giving youngsters a golden chance to prove themselves internationally. Maaz Sadaqat gained attention after scoring a quick 36-ball 53 for Pakistan Shaheens against England Lions. Along with him, Abdul Samad, Ghazi Ghori, Saad Masood, Sahibzada Farhan, and Shamyl Hussain were selected. Many of these players recently impressed in Shaheen’s matches, which helped them earn national call-ups. The Bangladesh tour could become a turning point in their careers if they perform well and secure permanent places in Pakistan’s ODI setup.
Shaheen Shah Afridi Continues As ODI Captain
Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will continue leading Pakistan in the ODI format, as confirmed by the PCB. The 25-year-old pacer is set to captain the side for the second time in ODIs after previously guiding Pakistan to a 2-1 series win against South Africa at home. Despite being dropped from the playing XI earlier during the T20 World Cup 2026 due to poor form, the board has shown confidence in his leadership skills. The Bangladesh series will be important for Shaheen to prove himself as a long-term captain.
Pakistan Squad For Bangladesh ODI Series
Pakistan named a balanced squad combining experienced players and young talents. The team will be led by Shaheen Afridi and includes Mohammad Rizwan as wicketkeeper, along with Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, and Faheem Ashraf. New additions such as Maaz Sadaqat, Saad Masood, Abdul Samad, and Shamyl Hussain bring fresh energy to the lineup. Sahibzada Farhan, known for his strong performances in T20 cricket, also earned selection. The squad reflects Pakistan’s attempt to rebuild depth while preparing future match-winners for international challenges.
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Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan has historically dominated Bangladesh in ODI cricket. Both teams have played 39 matches, with Pakistan winning 34 while Bangladesh secured five victories. Their last ODI meeting came during the 2023 ODI World Cup at Eden Gardens, where Pakistan won comfortably by seven wickets. Fakhar Zaman starred with a brilliant 81 runs from 74 balls, helping Pakistan chase a target of 205 with 17 overs remaining. This strong record gives Pakistan confidence, but Bangladesh will aim to challenge them strongly in home conditions at Mirpur.
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