Dhaka, March 10, 2026 – The cricket spotlight shifts to Dhaka as Bangladesh national cricket team host Pakistan national cricket team in a three-match One-Day International (ODI) series starting March 11, 2026 at the iconic Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
The series marks an important phase for both teams following the recent ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with each side looking to rebuild momentum and test new combinations ahead of future international competitions.
Pakistan begins ‘new era’ under Shaheen Afridi
Pakistan enters the ODI series with a significantly revamped squad led by fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. The selection committee has opted for a fresh approach by introducing several new players, signaling a transition toward long-term squad development.
In a surprising move, former captain Babar Azam has been left out of the ODI squad, a decision widely seen as part of the team’s strategy to build a new core ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.
Young talents, including Maaz Sadaqat and Faisal Akram, are among the uncapped players included in the squad, highlighting Pakistan’s focus on nurturing emerging cricketers.
Despite the absence of some senior players, Pakistan still possess a formidable pace attack, featuring Afridi alongside Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jr..
Bangladesh aim to regain dominance at home
The Bangladesh side, captained by all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz, will be looking to reassert their reputation as a strong home team.
The squad sees the return of Afif Hossain, while wicketkeeper-batsman Litton Das retains his place despite recent struggles with the bat.
Playing in familiar conditions in Mirpur, Bangladesh will rely heavily on their spin-friendly bowling attack and strong home crowd support to challenge a youthful Pakistani lineup.
Recent ODI form
Last five completed ODIs (most recent first):
| Team | Results |
| Bangladesh | WLWLL |
| Pakistan | WWWWL |
Pakistan enters the series with stronger recent form, while Bangladesh will look to capitalize on home advantage.
Pitch report: Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium
The Mirpur surface at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium is traditionally slow and low, often assisting spinners as the match progresses.
| Pitch Factor | Expected Impact |
| Surface pace | Slow and low |
| Spin assistance | High |
| Dew factor | Possible in evening |
| Preferred strategy | Bat first |
Teams often prefer batting first at this venue to avoid chasing on a deteriorating pitch. However, dew during day-night matches can sometimes help the chasing side.
What to expect in the series
The clash promises an intriguing contest between Pakistan’s pace firepower and Bangladesh’s spin-heavy attack.
While Pakistan’s fast bowlers could dominate early with the new ball, Bangladesh’s familiarity with Mirpur’s turning conditions could tilt the balance in their favor.
With both teams entering a transition phase after the T20 World Cup, the three-match ODI series is expected to provide crucial insights into their preparations for upcoming global tournaments.