Afghanistan vs Bangladesh 3rd T20I 2025 – Match Preview

Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
Time: 15:30 GMT (03:00 PM BST | 08:30 PM IST | 07:00 PM Local)
Series: Afghanistan vs Bangladesh – 3-match T20I Series
Series Standing: Bangladesh lead 2-0

Match Context

The 3rd and final T20I of the Afghanistan vs Bangladesh series is set to take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 5, 2025. After two consecutive losses to Bangladesh in the opening fixtures, Afghanistan will be looking to salvage some pride and end the series on a positive note. Meanwhile, Bangladesh, having already secured the series, will aim to maintain their momentum and continue their strong T20I form.

The Sharjah pitch has seen a gradual transformation over the last few years, becoming more spin-friendly and offering bowlers more assistance as the game progresses. With a win percentage of 54.5% for teams batting second, it will be interesting to see which side chooses to bat first.

Team Form & Analysis

Afghanistan:

Afghanistan's performance in this series has been below par, losing both the first and second T20Is. Their batting lineup has struggled to capitalize on starts, and they have often collapsed under pressure. However, the spin duo of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad has been a consistent threat with the ball, picking up crucial wickets.

Key to Afghanistan's chances will be the middle order stepping up and supporting the openers. Rahmanullah Gurbaz has shown glimpses of form, and if he can anchor the innings, it could provide the platform needed for a successful chase.

Bangladesh:

Bangladesh have been in excellent form in this series, winning both games decisively. Their adaptability in the T20 format has been on full display, with different players coming up with match-winning performances in each game. The middle and death overs have particularly been well-managed, with players like Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan contributing significantly with the bat.

On the bowling front, Taskin Ahmed and Nasum Ahmed have been in red-hot form, and their ability to take early wickets and maintain pressure will be crucial. With the series already in their pocket, they will be looking to finish with a clinical performance.

Key Players to Watch

Afghanistan:

• Rashid Khan (c): The leg-spinner has been in imperious form, picking up wickets regularly. A must-watch for his ability to change the course of the game.
• Noor Ahmad: A rising star in T20 cricket, Noor has been the pick of the bowlers for Afghanistan. His consistency and variations will be vital.
• Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk): Needs to lead the batting effort and provide stability in the middle order.

Bangladesh:

• Nasum Ahmed: The all-rounder has been a key contributor in the series, providing crucial breakthroughs and balance with the bat.
• Saif Hassan: Has been in good form with the bat, scoring quick runs in the middle overs.
• Taskin Ahmed: The pacer is among the world's best death bowlers and has been in exceptional form this season.

Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)

• Bangladesh: 4 wins
• Afghanistan: 1 win

Bangladesh have clearly dominated the recent encounters, and their experience in high-pressure situations could give them the edge.

Venue Insights – Sharjah Cricket Stadium

• Average 1st Innings Score (2022–2025): 167.4
• Win Percentage (Batting Second): 54.5%
• Spin-friendly pitch with good turn and bounce in the later stages.

Teams batting second have had the upper hand in recent matches, and with the pitch assisting spinners, the toss could be a pivotal moment in the match.

Predictions

• Toss Winner: Afghanistan
• Match Winner: Afghanistan
• Top Batsman: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)
• Top Bowler: Rashid Khan (Afghanistan)
• Most Sixes: Tanzid Hasan (Bangladesh)
• Player of the Match: Rahmanullah Gurbaz (Afghanistan)

Final Word

This match promises to be a tight and exciting contest. Afghanistan will be desperate to avoid a whitewash and will look to their spinners to provide the breakthroughs needed. Bangladesh, however, will aim to wrap up the series with a display of skill and composure. The Sharjah pitch could play a key role in shaping the outcome, and the toss may well decide the direction of the game.

Don’t miss this high-stakes finale as two of Asia's most competitive teams go head-to-head in a battle for pride and performance.
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