Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Series 2026, Babar Azam News & Prediction

Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Series 2026 – Schedule and Venue

The ODI series between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be played at the famous  Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.

Series Schedule

• 1st ODI: 11 March 2026 – Dhaka
• 2nd ODI: 13 March 2026 – Dhaka
• 3rd ODI: 15 March 2026 – Dhaka

All three matches will be played at the same venue, making pitch conditions and local familiarity important factors in the outcome of the series.

Pakistan Squad for Bangladesh ODI Series

The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced a 15-member squad led by fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi.

The squad also includes six uncapped players, showing that Pakistan selectors are trying to rebuild the ODI team for future tournaments.

Why Babar Azam Is Not Included in the Squad

One of the biggest talking points before the series is the absence of Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam.

The former Pakistan captain was dropped after a disappointing performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup, where he scored only 91 runs in four innings.

However, the team management clarified that his omission is not a punishment but part of a broader strategy to test new players and rebuild the team for future tournaments like the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

Despite his absence, Babar remains one of the best ODI batters in the world, and many fans believe he will soon return to the national team.

Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Pakistan has dominated Bangladesh in ODI cricket.

 Head-to-Head Statistics

•  Total Matches: 39
•  Pakistan Wins: 34
•  Bangladesh Wins: 5

 This record shows Pakistan’s strong dominance over Bangladesh in ODI cricket over the years.

 However, Bangladesh has improved significantly in recent years, especially in home conditions in Dhaka, which could make this series highly competitive.

 Key Players to Watch in the Series

Pakistan

• Shaheen Shah Afridi – Leading the team and spearheading the bowling attack
• Mohammad Rizwan – Experienced wicketkeeper batter
• Haris Rauf – Known for his pace and aggressive bowling

 Bangladesh

• Mehidy Hasan Miraz – Captain and key all-rounder who can impact the game with both bat and off-spin.
• Litton Das – Explosive top-order batter who can give the Bangladesh national cricket team a strong start.
• Taskin Ahmed – A strike fast bowler capable of taking early wickets against the Pakistan national cricket team.

Bangladesh will rely on their experienced players and their strong home advantage to challenge Pakistan.

Playing in Dhaka has often helped Bangladesh perform better due to spin-friendly pitches and passionate home support.

Possible Outcomes of the Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Series

Because Pakistan has selected a young and experimental squad, predicting the series outcome becomes very interesting.

Scenario 1: Pakistan Wins the Series

If Pakistan’s young players perform well, their fast bowling attack and aggressive batting could dominate Bangladesh.

Possible result: Pakistan 2-1 or 3-0

Scenario 2: Bangladesh Uses Home Advantage

Bangladesh is very strong in Dhaka and could exploit Pakistan’s inexperienced squad.

Possible result: Bangladesh 2-1

Scenario 3: A Close and Competitive Series

The most likely scenario is a tight contest, where both teams win matches.

Possible result: 2-1 either way 

Why This Series Is Important for the Future

This ODI series is not just another bilateral contest. It is part of Pakistan’s long-term planning for the 2027 Cricket World Cup, where selectors want to identify young players who can become the core of the ODI team.

 For Bangladesh, the series is an opportunity to prove their strength against a top Asian team.

Final Thoughts

The Pakistan vs Bangladesh ODI Series 2026 promises to be an exciting battle between a rebuilding Pakistan team and a confident Bangladesh side at home.

The absence of Babar Azam, the presence of several uncapped players, and Pakistan’s preparations for the 2027 Cricket World Cup make this series even more intriguing.

 Whether Pakistan’s young squad rises to the occasion or Bangladesh uses home advantage, cricket fans can expect thrilling matches and new stars emerging from the series.