Asia Cup 2025: Afghanistan face Bangladesh in crucial Group B clash in Abu Dhabi

Afghanistan will take on Bangladesh on Tuesday evening in a high-stakes Asia Cup 2025 Group B match at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

The encounter could prove decisive in shaping the group standings, with both teams vying for a place in the Super Four stage.

Afghanistan come into the contest with renewed confidence after their emphatic 94-run victory over Hong Kong, where opener Sediqullah Atal’s unbeaten 73 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s power-hitting cameo lit up the scoreboard. Their bowlers, led by Fazalhaq Farooqi and Noor Ahmad, also found rhythm, raising hopes that Afghanistan’s pace-spin balance can challenge Bangladesh’s batting lineup.

Bangladesh, meanwhile, began their campaign strongly with a win against Hong Kong but faltered against Sri Lanka in their second outing. That defeat has left them under pressure to bounce back against a spirited Afghan side. Much will depend on their top order, particularly Litton Das and Tanzid Hasan Tamim, while all-rounders such as Mahedi Hasan could prove decisive with both bat and ball.

Conditions in Abu Dhabi have so far offered a fair contest between bat and ball, with teams that settle quickly at the crease reaping rewards. The toss is expected to play a key role, with chasing under lights potentially advantageous if dew becomes a factor.

For Afghanistan, the match is also about momentum and national pride. With Naveen-ul-Haq sidelined due to injury, the bowling attack has leaned on youth and fresh energy, symbolizing the country’s new generation of cricketers.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be determined to assert their experience and avoid slipping further behind in the group race.

With a place in the Super Four on the line, both teams are expected to come out firing in what promises to be a tightly contested battle in Abu Dhabi.