Bangladesh vs Afghanistan – Asia Cup 2025 T20I Match Preview (16 September 2025)

Date: Saturday, 16 September 2025
Time: 7:30 PM (Local Time) / 15:30 GMT
Venue: Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Series: Asia Cup 2025 – Group B
Match: 9th Match, Group B
Format: T20I

Tournament Context

The Asia Cup 2025 is the 17th edition of the premier regional T20I tournament, serving as a crucial preparatory event for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Hosted in the United Arab Emirates, the tournament features eight teams split into two groups of four. Bangladesh and Afghanistan are part of Group B, which also includes Sri Lanka and Hong Kong.

This match, scheduled for 16 September 2025, is a pivotal encounter in Group B, with both teams aiming to secure a crucial win to bolster their chances of progressing to the Super Four stage.

Team Profiles

Bangladesh

Bangladesh enters this match with a squad led by the experienced Litton Das, who has been a consistent performer in T20Is. Their squad includes a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talents, with notable inclusions like Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, who has returned to the side after a period away.

Bangladesh has struggled in recent Asia Cups, failing to win a match in the 2022 edition and managing only two wins in 2023. However, their squad is in a strong phase, with players like Rishad Hossain, Shakib Al Hasan, and Taskin Ahmed expected to play key roles.

• Key Players:

  • Litton Das (C) – Steadying presence at the top of the order.
  • Shakib Al Hasan – All-rounder with match-winning potential.
  • Mustafizur Rahman – Experienced death-overs bowler.
  • Rishad Hossain – Vital with both bat and ball.

• Recent Form:
  In their first Group B match, Bangladesh faced Hong Kong and won comfortably, setting a positive tone for the tournament. Their second match against Sri Lanka ended in a tight win, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure.

Afghanistan

Afghanistan, led by Mohammad Nabi, has emerged as a formidable force in T20 cricket. Their aggressive brand of cricket and adaptability in different conditions have made them a strong contender in the Asia Cup.

Afghanistan has had a mixed record in past Asia Cups but has shown immense potential in recent years, reaching the semi-finals in the 2018 edition. Their squad is packed with explosive batsmen and disciplined bowlers, making them a tough side to beat.

• Key Players:

  • Mohammad Nabi (C) – Steady anchor and experienced all-rounder.
  • Rashid Khan – World-class leg-spinner.
  • Ibrahim Zadran – Explosive opener.
  • Gulbadin Naib – Reliable middle-order performer.

• Recent Form:
  Afghanistan started their Asia Cup campaign with a thrilling win over Hong Kong on 9 September. They followed it up with a narrow victory over Sri Lanka, proving their mettle in high-stakes games.

Head-to-Head

The rivalry between Bangladesh and Afghanistan has been competitive in recent years. Afghanistan has had the upper hand in recent T20I encounters, but Bangladesh has shown resilience and has the ability to spring surprises.

Their last T20I meeting in 2024 ended in a thrilling tie, with both teams showcasing their strengths. This match promises to be another high-intensity encounter.

Weather and Venue

The match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, a venue known for its flat and true pitch, often favoring aggressive batting. The weather is expected to be pleasant, with minimal chances of rain, allowing for a full contest.

Prediction and Key Factors

This match is expected to be a close contest, with both teams having the potential to win.

• Bangladesh’s Strengths:

  • Balanced squad with experienced players.
  • Strong batting line-up anchored by Litton Das and Shakib.
  • Effective spin and pace options in the bowling department.

• Afghanistan’s Strengths:

  • Explosive openers and a world-class spinner in Rashid Khan.
  • Tactical prowess under pressure.
  • Proven performers in tight games.

Key Match-ups to Watch:

• Litton Das vs Rashid Khan – Can Bangladesh's captain anchor the innings against the world's best spinner?
• Rashid Khan vs Shakib Al Hasan – A battle of two of the finest all-rounders in the format.
• Afghanistan's openers vs Mustafizur Rahman – The death-overs duel could decide the game.

Final Verdict

Both teams are well-prepared and in good form, making this a must-watch match of the tournament. However, with Afghanistan's recent form and depth in the middle overs, they might edge out Bangladesh in a tight game.

Prediction:
Afghanistan to win by 5-10 runs, depending on how well they utilize their spin and how Bangladesh handle the pressure of the chase.

TV and Live Streaming

The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network (India) and Ten Sports (Pakistan). Internationally, it will be available on Sky Sports (UK) and ESPNcricinfo for live streaming and updates.

Stay tuned for more updates, live scores, and post-match analysis right here!