Bangladesh A vs Afghanistan A – Preview | Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025, 17 November 2025

Match Details

• Competition: ACC Men's Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 (T20 Format)
• Teams: Bangladesh A vs Afghanistan A
• Venue: West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha, Qatar
• Date & Time: 17 November 2025, 02:30 PM GMT / 08:00 PM IST / 05:30 PM Local (Doha)
• Match No.: 8
• Group: Group A

Match Preview

The West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha is set to host one of the most intriguing matches of the ACC Men's Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 as Bangladesh A takes on Afghanistan A on 17 November 2025. This high-stakes T20 clash is not only crucial for both teams in the group stage but also a battle between emerging Asian talent and a defending champion with a strong pedigree.

Bangladesh A – Building Momentum

Bangladesh A started their campaign with a match against Hong Kong on 15 November, which they won comfortably. The victory showcased their balanced squad, with notable contributions from their top-order batsmen and a disciplined bowling attack. The team's captain, Shakib Al Hasan (A), has been in commanding form, leading from the front with both bat and ball.

Bangladesh A’s strength lies in their all-round depth. The middle order is backed by aggressive players capable of shifting the momentum in the latter stages of the innings. Their pace attack, led by Taskin Ahmed (A) and Mehidy Hasan (A), has the ability to trouble even the best of batters in the shortest format.

Afghanistan A – Defending Champions with a Point to Prove

Afghanistan A, the defending champions, made a strong statement in their opening match against Sri Lanka A on 15 November, emerging victorious to set the tone for their campaign. The Afghans are known for their fearless brand of cricket and their ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

Captain Rashid Khan (A) will be a key figure for Afghanistan A, not only with his leg-spin but also with the leadership he brings to the side. Alongside, Hazratullah Zadran (A) and Mohammad Nabi (A) are expected to provide the firepower with the bat, while the pace duo of Najibullah Zadran (A) and Afsar Zadran (A) can exploit any mis-hits and dot balls.

Afghanistan A's strategy has always been to play aggressively and put pressure on the opposition. Their ability to chase down big totals and defend small scores makes them a formidable side in the T20 format.

Head-to-Head

The two teams have faced each other in previous editions of the ACC Rising Stars tournament. Afghanistan A has had the upper hand in these meetings, particularly in the 2023 edition where they clinched a thrilling win in a rain-affected match. However, Bangladesh A has shown significant improvement in the last two years, and their recent performance against Hong Kong suggests they are ready to challenge their rivals.

Weather and Venue Conditions

The West End Park International Cricket Stadium is a well-maintained T20-friendly venue, with a balanced pitch that offers assistance to both batters and bowlers. The weather in Doha during this period is typically pleasant, with clear skies and minimal humidity, making it ideal for a high-scoring encounter.

Key Players to Watch

• Bangladesh A:

  • Shakib Al Hasan (A) – The captain and star performer, expected to anchor the innings and provide crucial wickets.
  • Mehidy Hasan (A) – The left-arm spinner who can turn the game with his variations.
  • Shanto Mustafizur (A) – The aggressive opener who can take the attack to the opposition in the powerplay.

• Afghanistan A:

  • Rashid Khan (A) – The spin maestro and vice-captain, vital for both his wickets and his role in the middle order.
  • Hazratullah Zadran (A) – A destructive batter who can change the game with his explosive hitting.
  • Najibullah Zadran (A) – The all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.

Prediction

This is a match that promises fireworks, with both teams coming into it with confidence and form. Bangladesh A’s balanced squad and recent win over Hong Kong gives them an edge, but Afghanistan A’s experience and fearless approach could upset the odds. The toss will be crucial, and whoever wins it and chooses to bat first might have the upper hand on a pitch that rewards big-hitting.

Prediction: A close contest, but Bangladesh A to edge it by 5 wickets.

Broadcast and Live Streaming

• India: Sony Sports Network, Sony Liv
• Pakistan: PTV Sports, Tamasha app
• UAE & Middle East: CricLife MAX via eLife TV, Switch TV
• USA & Canada: Sling TV (Willow TV)
• Global Viewers: STARZPLAY via CricLife MAX

Conclusion

The clash between Bangladesh A and Afghanistan A on 17 November 2025 is a must-watch for cricket fans. With two strong sides, the match is expected to showcase the best of emerging Asian talent and provide a glimpse of the future of T20 cricket. The result could significantly shape the group dynamics and set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Get ready for a thrilling T20 encounter at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium as the battle for Group A dominance begins in earnest.
“`