Bangladesh began their ODI series against Afghanistan with a defeat in Abu Dhabi. The team looked solid when Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Towhid Hridoy added 101 runs together, but once that stand ended, the rest of the batting lineup failed to recover.
Jaker Ali Anik once again played a risky shot, similar to his mistake in the T20 series. He scored only 10 runs from 16 balls before getting out. Even so, Towhid Hridoy continues to back his teammate.
Jaker’s form has seen some ups and downs. In 2024, he averaged around 53 in five ODIs. After six matches this year, that average has dropped to 37.50. But Hridoy still feels Jaker is batting well.
“Before the Asia Cup, he was in great rhythm. I think he’s still playing well. If you look at his recent ODI innings, you’ll see he’s in good touch,” said Hridoy.
Hridoy also asked people not to compare one format with another. “That’s the problem, I think. People keep comparing formats,” he said.
Backing his teammate, Hridoy added, “Jaker is in a good place. Every player goes through ups and downs. Even the best players can’t perform in every match. I wouldn’t call it a bad patch. Maybe there’s a small issue with execution. Hopefully, it will get better soon, In Sha Allah.”
