After competing in the Test series, West Indies and Bangladesh will face off in a three-match ODI series. The first ODI is set to begin on 8th December at Werner Park.
Match Preview:
Despite losing the second Test match, West Indies will head into the ODI series with positive hopes. In their last two ODI series, the West Indies defeated the Three Lions twice. This success will boost their confidence in overcoming Bangladesh, especially with the home advantage.
West Indies will rely on key players such as Alzarri Joseph, Shai Hope, and Sherfane Rutherford. Although Hope has struggled with form recently, Joseph’s pace and accuracy could prove crucial.
Meanwhile, Rutherford, fresh off the Abu Dhabi T10 League, will aim to solidify his place in the national team. The team has also included Amir Jangoo, a talented wicketkeeper-batter who impressed selectors during the Super50 Cup.
On the other hand, Bangladesh enters the series after losing their last ODI series to Afghanistan. This marks the first bilateral ODI series between the two teams in nearly a decade.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz will continue as captain and will aim to secure an ODI series win following the drawn Test series. Taskin Ahmed, who excelled in the Test matches, will look to carry his form into the ODIs.
The absence of Mustafizur Rahman, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Najmul Hossain Shanto will be felt, but players like Litton Das and Soumya Sarkar need to step up. Nahid Rana will also be a key player for Bangladesh. Nasum Ahmed can be a vital player too as his recent knock in the FC cricket recently.
Probable Playing XI:
West Indies
Keacy Carty, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, Shai Hope (C), Brandon King, Shimron Hetmyer, Evin Lewis, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, G Moti-Kanhai, Romario Shepherd
Bangladesh
Litton Das (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (C), Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Jaker Ali, Tanzid Hasan, Mahmudullah, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman
Head-to-Head Record:
West Indies and Bangladesh share an evenly balanced ODI head-to-head record, with both teams having won 21 of their 44 encounters, while two matches ended with no result. With the record tied, both teams will be eager to take the lead in this series.
Pitch and Weather Report:
The pitch at Werner Park typically offers good pace and bounce, favoring batters, especially during the early stages with the new ball. As the match progresses and the ball loses its shine, spinners are expected to have an impact.
The weather forecast predicts a partly cloudy and breezy day with a slight chance of morning showers. However, the likelihood of rain affecting the match is low. Temperatures are expected to peak at around 30°C, according to AccuWeather.
Prediction:
Considering their recent form and home advantage, West Indies are expected to win the 1st ODI of the series.
Where to Watch:
Pakistan: Tapmad
Bangladesh: Toffee
West Indies: ESPN Caribbean
India: FanCode App
UK: TNT Sports 2
