The dysfunctional relationship between the BCB and PCB put aside as Bangladesh and Pakistan is playing their first bilateral series today, since December 2011. This match will be Azhar Ali’s first assignment as the Pakistan ODI captain after veteran skippers Misbah-ul-Haq and Afridi announced their retirement from this format.
Bangladesh is eager to register a win and show the World that they are a lot better side than before. All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is leading the side today and regular captain Mashrafe Mortaza is expected to be back as skipper for next two matches.
Bangladesh has won the toss and chose to bat first. Probably a wise call under the given circumstances.
This the first tournament for Pakistan after World Cup 2015, attention will move to how Pakistan will do without players like Misbah-ul-Haq and Shahid Afridi. It is a new era for them, led by Azhar Ali, who hasn't played an ODI since January 2013. A host of new players like Sami Aslam, Saad Nasim and Mohammad Rizwan have been included. The return of Saeed Ajmal, who has missed international cricket since August last year, is also a major inclusion in the squad.
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