Afif Hossain set to return to Bangladesh squad for Pakistan ODIs

Afif Hossain is set to return to international cricket after a lengthy absence, with the middle order batter set to be selected for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan.

A BCB source working closely with the national selection panel confirmed the development to Cricbuzz on Wednesday as the 15-member squad was finalised for the series, scheduled to begin at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium from March 11.

Pakistan will play the second and third ODIs at the same venue on March 13 and 15 respectively.

Afif last played an ODI for Bangladesh against West Indies in December 2024 and was subsequently out of the national set-up. His recent domestic performances forced the national selectors to reconsider and hand him an opportunity.

Afif impressed the selectors in the Odommo Bangladesh T20 Cup, scoring an unbeaten 60 off 36 balls for Durbar XI against Dhumketu XI. He followed it up with a century for South Zone in the Bangladesh Cricket League.

Bangladesh are looking for consistency in the middle order, and Afif's ability to bowl a few overs also worked in his favour.

"In the late-order, the national selection panel wanted a left-hander and Afif seems to have fit the bill considering his recent form in domestic cricket. Now selectors are hoping he translates his domestic form to the international stage," said the source.

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Jaker Ali is expected to be dropped from the series as the team management is keen to bring Litton Kumar Das back into the ODI set-up.

Litton's batting position is under discussion, with some inside the management circle feeling that playing him at number five instead of in the top three might suit the team better.

The national team will play a practice game against Bangladesh A on March 7 as part of their preparation for the Pakistan series. The preparation camp is scheduled to start on March 6.