The BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 Group B clash at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, is set to be one of the tournament’s most competitive encounters. Both Bangladesh and Afghanistan come into this fixture on the back of dominant wins against Hong Kong. The stakes are high, as the victor will secure a strong chance of qualifying for the Super Four stage.
Venue – Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Date – Sept 16th 2025.
Time – 8:00 PM, 02:30 PM GMT / 06:30 PM LOCAL
Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await this fixture, where Bangladesh’s balanced lineup meets Afghanistan’s world-renowned spin attack. As one expert put it, “This match is not just about skill—it’s about temperament and who handles the pressure moments better.”
Asia Cup Schedule and Points Table provide more details about how this game could shape the group standings.
Team News and Updates
Bangladesh
The Tigers kicked off their Asia Cup campaign with a commanding 7-wicket win over Hong Kong. Litton Das, who leads the side with composure, continues to anchor the batting unit. Bangladesh’s bowling attack, featuring Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman, also looked sharp. Their focus will be on extending this form into a tougher battle.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan demonstrated its immense strength with a crushing 94-run victory in its opener. Their batting, led by Azmatullah Omarzai, fired impressively, while Rashid Khan’s leadership adds confidence to their spin-heavy bowling. Their biggest test, however, will be against a side like Bangladesh that has shown resilience against quality spin in recent months.
For more on Afghanistan cricket, check the Afghanistan coverage.
Probable Playing XI
| Bangladesh Probable XI | Afghanistan Probable XI |
|---|---|
| Litton Das (c) | Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk) |
| Tanzid Hasan | Ibrahim Zadran |
| Parvez Hossain Emon | Sediqullah Atal |
| Towhid Hridoy | Azmatullah Omarzai |
| Jaker Ali Anik (wk) | Mohammad Nabi |
| Shamim Hossain | Rashid Khan (c) |
| Mahedi Hasan | Gulbadin Naib |
| Taskin Ahmed | Karim Janat |
| Rishad Hossain | Mujeeb Ur Rahman |
| Mustafizur Rahman | Naveen-ul-Haq |
| Shoriful Islam | Fazalhaq Farooqi |
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches Played | Bangladesh Wins | Afghanistan Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | 5 | 7 |
In their last five encounters, Afghanistan has a slight upper hand with three wins, including a nail-biting 8-run victory in their previous meeting.
Asia Cup 2025 Form Guide
- Bangladesh: Began the tournament with a composed 7-wicket win over Hong Kong, highlighting batting depth and discipline.
- Afghanistan: Opened with a statement win, thrashing Hong Kong by 94 runs, showcasing their powerful batting and deadly spin attack.
Key Player Battles in BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025
- Litton Das vs. Rashid Khan: The Bangladesh captain must handle Rashid’s guile in the middle overs, a duel that could decide the match.
- Mustafizur Rahman vs. Rahmanullah Gurbaz: Gurbaz’s aggressive starts will face the challenge of Mustafizur’s clever variations.
- Mohammad Nabi vs. Mahedi Hasan: Both all-rounders add balance with bat and ball, making their contest one to watch.
Cricket pundit Aakash Chopra stated, “The match might boil down to how Bangladesh bats against Afghanistan’s spinners. Whoever wins that mini-battle will likely win the game.”
Players to Watch Out For
- Taskin Ahmed (Bangladesh): His ability to strike early and lead the pace attack is vital for Bangladesh’s success.
- Fazalhaq Farooqi (Afghanistan): The left-arm pacer is known for his new-ball skills and will test Bangladesh’s openers.
For more about Bangladesh’s preparation, visit Bangladesh coverage.
Expert Opinions and Predictions
While Afghanistan holds a psychological advantage with their superior head-to-head record, Bangladesh’s recent form and stability give them confidence. Many experts believe the match will be evenly contested, with conditions playing a decisive role.
Former cricketer Habibul Bashar noted, “This is not just about skills; it’s about handling nerves. Whichever team adapts to the Abu Dhabi conditions better will prevail.”
Pitch and Weather Report
- Pitch: The Sheikh Zayed Stadium surface offers movement early for pacers but slows down to favor spinners as the match progresses. Scores around 160–170 could be competitive.
- Weather: Clear skies, hot temperatures of around 34°C, and high humidity. Dew in the evening may influence the chasing team’s advantage.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
| Bangladesh | Afghanistan |
|---|---|
| Gazi TV (GTV) | ACB Media |
| T Sports | ACB Media App |
| BTV National | |
| Toffee App | |
| Rabbithole BD | |
| Tapmad |
Conclusion
The BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match has all the ingredients for a thrilling contest. Bangladesh’s composure and depth will be tested against Afghanistan’s spin brilliance and aggressive batting. This Group B battle is not only about points but about momentum going forward in the tournament. Fans can expect a gripping contest in Abu Dhabi.
FAQs
Who is favored to win the BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match?
Both sides are strong, but experts slightly favor Bangladesh due to their balanced team.
What time and venue is the BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match?
The match takes place at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on September 16 at 02:30 PM GMT / 06:30 PM LOCAL
What is the Bangladesh vs Afghanistan head to head record T20s?
They’ve met 12 times in T20Is, with Afghanistan leading 7–5.
BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025: Where to watch?
Fans in Bangladesh can watch on Gazi TV and Toffee App, while Afghanistan coverage is on ACB Media.
What is the BAN vs AFG Asia Cup 2025 match prediction?
Experts expect a close contest, but Bangladesh’s form gives them a slight edge.