Bangladesh is set to kick off the three-game ODI series against Zimbabwe in Harare on Monday following a disappointing loss in the solitary Test match. The Tigers, who struggled against Zimbabwe’s fast bowlers in the Test match, will see the return of key pace bowlers Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed, and Mustafizur Rahman, who have been instrumental in Bangladesh’s recent ODI victories at home.
The match is scheduled to start at 1:30 pm Bangladesh time on Monday. However, Bangladesh may be without Litton Das for the series opener, with his return expected in the second ODI. In his absence, Nazmul Hossain Shanto and Towhid Hridoy will aim to enhance their batting performances from the Test match.
Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who missed the Test, will make his comeback for the ODI series. Rana, the leading wicket-taker in ODIs this year with 20 wickets, will be keen to showcase his skills in Africa as Bangladesh prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Taskin’s consistent bowling lengths and Mustafizur’s craftiness will be crucial for Bangladesh after Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed, and Ebadot Hossain struggled in the Test match. Despite winning three of their last four ODI series against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh lost the most recent bilateral series 2-1 in Harare in August 2022.
Harare is known for high-scoring ODI matches, and Bangladesh will focus on improving their top-order batting. Mosaddek Hossain’s good form and captain Miraz’s contributions with the bat will be vital for the Tigers. Bangladesh aims to continue their successful ODI run after securing four consecutive series victories, including a recent 2-1 win over Australia at home.