Bangladesh is pushing forward with bold moves to reclaim its cricketing edge. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is negotiating a T20I series with Afghanistan for October 2025. Talks have started for a three-match series to boost both teams’ readiness. This follows a rocky period of postponed plans with Afghanistan earlier. After making Bangladesh Making Strong Decisions, the series targets preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. For Bangladesh, it’s a chance to sharpen skills and rebuild momentum.
Bangladesh Making Tough Decisions
Last year, Afghanistan planned to host Bangladesh for a big tour in July 2024. That schedule included two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is. But the BCB stepped back, citing player workload as a primary concern. Then, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) suggested a shorter white-ball series instead.
It proposed three ODIs and three T20Is in Greater Noida for July-August. That idea crumbled due to India’s harsh summer weather, the BCB argued. Now, Bangladesh is seizing this October window to refocus and regroup. This move signals a strategic shift to prioritize key formats ahead of their defeat against India in the CT 2025 group stage match.
Current Plans and Scheduling
Now, both boards are targeting early October for the T20I series. A BCB official confirmed talks with the ACB have started already. Further discussions will follow during Ramadan to finalize the details of the tour. The official emphasized the series as key preparation for the T20 World Cup.
According to an ACB official, a window exists from October 2-12. This aligns with the Future Tours Programme (FTP) for both teams. They are working to lock in dates and the packed itinerary soon.
Recent Encounters and Future Tests
The teams last met in November 2024 for a three-match ODI series. Held in the UAE, it served as Champions Trophy preparation for both. That series showed their commitment to competitive bilateral engagements. Meanwhile, the two-Test series from the original plan remains on hold. Both boards express interest in rescheduling it at a suitable time. Finding the right slot for red-ball cricket is a priority moving forward.
Strategic Importance of the Series
This T20I series reflects a strategic shift toward short-format cricket for 2026. Afghanistan aims to leverage home conditions to challenge Bangladesh’s lineup. For Bangladesh, it’s a chance to fine-tune their T20 skills abroad. The collaboration highlights the growing ties between the two cricket nations. With discussions advancing, fans can expect a competitive showdown in October 2025.
Mustafizur Rahman Nears Cricket Return After PRP Treatment
Mustafizur Rahman, Bangladesh’s vital pace bowler, is close to returning to competitive cricket. On March 12, he received a PRP injection for his troublesome left shoulder. This shoulder, which was surgically repaired before, often flares up during intense matches.
PRP treatment uses the patient’s platelets to accelerate healing naturally. It involves injecting concentrated platelets into the injury to reduce inflammation quickly. The Bangladesh Cricket Board’s medical unit predicts recovery in seven to 10 days. Surprisingly, Rahman went unsold at the Dhaka Premier League transfer recently.
Despite this, he aims to rejoin the league after Eid-Ul-Fitr festivities end. Speculation grows about a possible Indian Premier League stint, too. However, no concrete IPL deal has surfaced as of now. He may have returned to Prime Bank Cricket Club, his team, last season. An official said his comeback hinges on fitness and budget constraints. This step marks progress in his ongoing recovery efforts.
Mahmudullah Announces Retirement from International Cricket
On March 12, 2025, Mahmudullah bid farewell to international cricket via social media. The 39-year-old veteran played over 400 matches across Test, ODI, and T20I formats. He remains Bangladesh’s only batter with three ODI World Cup centuries. His post thanked teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support. He mentioned his wife, kids, and brother, Emdad Ullah.
Emdad, his mentor since childhood, shaped his cricketing journey significantly. Mahmudullah opted out of central contracts earlier than February 2025. This decision came amid scrutiny after the Champions Trophy campaign faltered and India won. His exit closes a remarkable chapter in Bangladesh cricket history.
Mushtaq Ahmed Set for Two-Year Extension with Bangladesh
Mushtaq Ahmed, Pakistan’s legendary legspinner, is poised for a two-year BCB extension. Announced Thursday, the deal nears completion with only minor tweaks pending. He’ll serve as a spin consultant for 130 days annually starting soon. His role extends beyond the national team to the High-Performance Unit.
Mushtaq joined before the 2024 T20 World Cup, aiding Bangladesh’s spinners. He returned for the South Africa series and the Champions Trophy, too. With 185 Test and 161 ODI wickets, his expertise is unmatched. Past coaching stints include England, West Indies, and Pakistan teams.
The BCB aims to elevate spin bowling at all levels through him. The contract, set to run until 2027, will be signed shortly. This move underscores Bangladesh’s commitment to a stronger spin future.
Conclusion
Bangladesh cricket is entering a crucial phase with strategic decisions and key developments. The proposed T20I series against Afghanistan in October 2025 marks an important step. It will serve as valuable preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup. After past scheduling challenges, both boards are working to finalize the matches. The move reflects Bangladesh’s shift towards prioritizing short-format cricket.
Meanwhile, Mustafizur Rahman is on the path to recovery after PRP treatment. His return will boost Bangladesh’s bowling attack, though his immediate future remains uncertain. Mahmudullah’s retirement marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket. His legacy, especially in ODI World Cups, will be remembered.
On the coaching front, Mushtaq Ahmed’s contract extension signals Bangladesh’s focus on spin development. His expertise will be vital for both national and emerging players. With these changes, Bangladesh is strengthening its foundation for future success. Fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive phase in Bangladesh cricket.
