The T20I series between Bangladesh and Afghanistan is predicted to be enthralling given that the visitors have a better record against the hosts in the Twenty20 format. Both sides will be keen to win the series in order to show their capabilities to the rest of the cricket world. Therefore, big names of either side will be ready to show their true potential during the 2-match series. Take a look at the five players who are expected to perform well in the BAN vs AFG T20I series 2022.
Five Important Players in BAN vs AFG T20I Series 2022
Both the Bangladesh and Afghanistan squads have a few genuine world-class T20 players. Five key players who might have a significant impact on the series are discussed in this article. Let’s have a glance at their international T20 career statistics.
Mustafizur Rahman
T20I Stats: M: 61 | Wkts: 86 | BBI: 5/22 | Ave: 19.51 | Econ: 7.63 | 5W: 1
Mustafizur Rahman’s bowling is ideal for Bangladesh conditions. His main weapon, a lethal and deceptive off-cutter delivery, works well in Mirpur pitches, where the BAN vs AFG T20I series will be staged. He has the ability to check the run flow and make important breakthroughs when required. Therefore, left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman will be one of the most crucial players in the series.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman
T20I Stats: M: 22 | Wkts: 32 | BBI: 5/20 | Ave: 15.87 | Econ: 6.04 | 5W: 1
A highly talented Afghanistan off-spinner, Mujeeb Ur Rahman has established himself as one of the most sought-after spinners in the T20 format. The tall spinner is a skilled bowler who uses tight lines and lengths to put pressure on the opposition batters. He has become a household name in twenty20 franchise competitions all over the world because of his wicket-taking ability. Mujeeb’s spell will be key for Afghanistan during the series.
Rashid Khan
T20I Stats: M: 56 | Wkts: 103 | BBI: 5/3 | Ave: 12.73 | Econ: 6.20 | 5W: 2
The presence of Rashid Khan on a squad adds to concern on the opposition side, as the dynamic leg-spinner knows how to utterly dismantle batting lineups. Rashid Khan’s leg spin is more effective in the shortest format of the game. Because batters have fewer opportunities to adapt with his bowling in limited-overs cricket. As a result, batters have to take risks against Rashid in order to increase the run rates, allowing Rashid to capture wickets. The Afghan maestro will surely play a pivotal role in the series.
Mohammad Nabi
T20I Stats: M: 86 | Runs: 1523 | HS: 89 | SR: 143.27 | 50s: 4 | Wkts: 73 | BBI: 4/10 | Ave: 27.95 | Econ: 7.24 | 4W: 3
The Afghanistan team’s most experienced player is Mohammad Nabi. He is a true breakthrough bowler as well as a highly aggressive batter in the batting order. Nabi is the captain of the Afghanistan team, which comes with additional responsibilities. Overall, Nabi’s cricketing intellect will be vital for the visiting side throughout the series.
Shakib Al Hasan
T20I Stats: M: 94 | Runs: 1,894 | HS: 84 | SR: 120.48 | 50s: 9 | Wkts: 117 | BBI: 5/20 | Ave: 19.79 | Econ: 6.66 | 5W: 1
The best all-rounder in the world, Shakib Al Hasan did not play in the Pakistan series in November. Bangladesh’s performance in the series was a complete letdown without him. Therefore, Shakib’s return to the squad will boost the confidence among the players during the series. Shakib will be crucial for Bangladesh to win this bilateral T20I series, especially against a tough Afghanistan team.
Aftermath
The five players named above are some of the well-known names in T20 cricket around the world. They have the capacity to play better under pressure and can win games for their respective teams on their own. Therefore, both teams will be eagerly anticipating their performances in the BAN vs AFG T20I series in 2022. Their on-field performances will surely captivate the stadium crowds, as BCB has chosen to sell out the entire Mirpur Stadium seating capacity tickets for the series.
Source: United News of Bangladesh