Bangladesh could be set for a three-nation one-day international series in October, with Afghanistan and Zimbabwe potentially joining the Tigers in the competition in the United Arab Emirates.
Bangladesh have just completed a two-Test series in Australia, with the contest ending 1-1. The result will provide some encouragement to the side after competing in challenging conditions away from home. Following their return, the players are expected to have a short break before beginning preparations for the next phase of the international calendar.
Bangladesh’s schedule for September could also change depending on India’s proposed tour. If India do not travel to Bangladesh during that period, national team players are expected to use the time to work on their skills and fitness. The additional preparation period would give players an opportunity to address technical areas and maintain their physical condition ahead of a busy run of fixtures.
The Bangladesh team could then return to international action at the beginning of October, when they are expected to travel to the United Arab Emirates for a series against Afghanistan. The proposed programme includes one Test and three one-day internationals.
Preparations for the Bangladesh-Afghanistan series are reportedly close to completion. The exact dates and venues are expected to be announced once the remaining arrangements are finalised.
However, the proposed programme could become considerably busier if Zimbabwe agree to take part. A Bangladesh Cricket Board official told an online news outlet that discussions are under way over the possibility of turning the bilateral one-day series into a three-team competition involving Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe’s participation would add more matches to Bangladesh’s October schedule and provide the three sides with additional competitive opportunities in the one-day format. For Bangladesh, it could also serve as useful preparation for the challenges that come with a packed international calendar.
The plan, however, remains dependent on Zimbabwe Cricket’s decision. The organisers are currently waiting for confirmation from the Zimbabwean board before finalising the proposed tri-series.
For Bangladesh, the immediate focus remains on recovery after the Australia tour and preparations for the next assignment. If Zimbabwe agree to join Afghanistan and Bangladesh, the UAE could host a three-team one-day competition in October, giving all three sides a further opportunity to test their squads in international conditions.
