Bangladesh could return to international action in October with a three-team one-day series involving Afghanistan and Zimbabwe, as discussions continue over the final shape of the team’s schedule in the United Arab Emirates.
Bangladesh have just completed a two-Test series in Australia, with the contest ending 1-1. The result gave the visitors a positive finish to a challenging overseas assignment, while the players are now expected to receive a short break before beginning preparations for their next commitments.
The Bangladesh squad could have some additional time to work on their skills and fitness in September if India do not travel to Bangladesh as currently expected. Players such as Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz could use the period to focus on individual improvement and physical conditioning ahead of a busy run of international cricket.
The schedule is expected to become considerably more demanding from the beginning of October. Bangladesh are due to travel to the United Arab Emirates for a series against Afghanistan. The proposed tour includes one Test and three one-day internationals.
Preparations for the Bangladesh-Afghanistan series are understood to be close to completion, with the dates and detailed schedule expected to be announced in the coming days.
There is, however, a possibility that the tour could be expanded.
A Bangladesh Cricket Board official told an online news outlet that discussions are under way to include Zimbabwe in the programme, potentially turning the one-day fixtures into a tri-nation series involving Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe.
If Zimbabwe agree to participate, the number of matches on the schedule would increase. The format and exact number of games would depend on the final agreement between the participating boards and the organisers.
For Bangladesh, such a series would provide additional competitive one-day cricket ahead of a demanding international calendar. Playing against two different opponents would also give the coaching staff more opportunities to assess combinations and performances across the squad.
The proposal, however, has not yet been finalised. The organisers are currently waiting for Zimbabwe Cricket to confirm whether it is willing to join the competition. A decision from the Zimbabwean board will determine whether Bangladesh’s October assignment remains a bilateral series against Afghanistan or develops into a three-team one-day tournament.
For now, the Bangladesh team’s immediate focus remains on completing its current commitments and preparing for the UAE tour. The final October schedule will become clearer once Zimbabwe Cricket makes its decision.