Bangladesh’s progress to the Super Four of the Asia Cup is very difficult after losing by a big margin to Sri Lanka. The last match against Afghanistan is now a life-or-death battle for Liton Das’ team. Farviz Maharoof sees some potential for Bangladesh as the venue is in Abu Dhabi. However, he feels that Bangladesh’s batters will have to face a tough test against Afghanistan’s pacers in this match.
The Abu Dhabi wicket has some advantages for pacers. So Maharoof is putting Bangladesh ahead of the Afghans at this venue. Although he believes that the Bangladeshi batters will have a tough time against Fazlhaq Farooqui and Azmatullah Omarzai. However, he believes that the Tigers’ top order will do well here as the pacers’ balls are skidding.
In this regard, Maharoof said, “Look at the matches played in Abu Dhabi, the pitch seems to be skidding there. The spinners’ balls are also skidding on the bat. So this may help the Bangladeshi top order. Because the team’s batters like the time the ball comes to the bat. So this is the only advantage. But Bangladesh has to forget what happened against Sri Lanka, they have to start anew.”
Expressing concerns over the advantage, Maharoof said, “I think it might be difficult to play against the way Fazlhaq Farooqui is swinging the ball. Also, if Azmatullah Omarzai gets a chance to swing the ball, it will be difficult to handle. Bangladesh just needs a good start. You don’t often see two overs, two wickets, two maidens in T20 cricket. And it doesn’t happen every time.”
Bangladesh has won more matches by batting later in recent times. On the other hand, Afghanistan has won by batting first. That is why Maharoof finds some specialness in this encounter. He said, “I want to see Bangladesh bat first and get runs on the board. There is no pressure, just go out and enjoy the field. But recently they have been liking to chase runs. They are winning matches by chasing runs.”
Regarding Afghanistan, the former Sri Lankan cricketer said, “Afghanistan always wants to bat, whether it is dew or not, they don’t care. Because they want to defend later. On the other hand, Bangladesh likes to chase runs. So this is where it gets interesting. I just want Bangladesh to come out and attack with all their might.”
According to the former Sri Lankan all-rounder, the first six overs of the Bangladesh-Afghanistan match can decide the fate of the entire match. He says to keep an eye on the first six overs of the team batting first. In this context, he said, “Bangladesh was in a pretty good position before coming here for the Asia Cup. I just hope that whatever Bangladesh do in the first six overs, they will set the tone for the game. Whether they bat or bowl.”
FAQ
Why is the Bangladesh vs Afghanistan match so important in the Asia Cup 2025?
This match is crucial because Bangladesh must win to keep their hopes alive for qualifying for the Super Four stage.
What did Farveez Maharoof say about Bangladesh’s chances?
Maharoof said the Abu Dhabi pitch could favor Bangladesh’s top order, but warned that Afghanistan’s pacers would be a big challenge.
Which Afghan bowlers could trouble Bangladesh the most?
Fazlhaq Farooqi and Azmatullah Omarzai, both capable of swinging the ball, are seen as major threats to Bangladesh’s batters.
How has Bangladesh performed recently in similar conditions?
Bangladesh have often done well when chasing targets, but Maharoof suggested they should also try batting first to set a score.
What key factor could decide the outcome of the match?
Maharoof believes the first six overs of the game, whether batting or bowling, will set the tone and decide the result.
