Bangladesh have begun their training camp in the United Arab Emirates ahead of their upcoming series against Afghanistan. The three-match T20 International series is set to begin on 2 October, followed by a three-match One Day International series.
Speaking to the media before the series, Bangladesh batter Saif Hassan said the team are confident of securing a series win, with full focus currently on starting well in the opening match.
Afghanistan’s squad features world-class spinners including Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad and Mohammad Ghaffar. Saif welcomed the challenge, stating that Bangladesh are eager to face them.
He said, “First comes the opening match. If we can start well, Inshallah, the series will be ours too. All our focus is on the first game. They have a few mystery spinners, which will actually help us prepare better going forward. So hopefully, we can cash in on this series.”
Bangladesh are aiming to play to their strengths, acknowledging that Afghanistan are a strong T20 side with abilities comparable to their own. However, Bangladesh will take confidence from their recent win against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup, which Saif believes could provide inspiration.
Discussing the team’s preparation, Saif added, “I do not know how many matches they have won, but if we play to our strengths, we can beat any team on our day. If we focus on our strengths and work on our weaknesses, Inshallah, that will take us forward.”
Saif was one of Bangladesh’s standout performers during the Asia Cup, consistently scoring runs as an opener. He now hopes to continue that form in the upcoming series.
“My job is to perform, and I have been doing that. The Asia Cup is finished, so now I am fully focused on the upcoming series against Afghanistan,” he said.
