Afghanistan stand in Bangladesh’s way for spot in final

Bangladesh face Afghanistan in a crucial tri-series ODI in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, needing a significant victory to reach the final. Following an opening defeat to Zimbabwe, Bangladesh must win by roughly 40 runs if batting first, or chase down their target quickly. Meanwhile, Afghanistan enter the match as strong favorites after securing a dominant 158-run win over Zimbabwe.

Afghanistan's previous victory featured a century from Sediqullah Atal, 90 runs from Ibrahim Zadran, and four wickets from Rashid Khan. In contrast, Bangladesh head coach Phil Simmons admitted his side lacked game awareness in their prior loss. Bangladesh may also be forced to cope without Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who has been battling a viral fever.