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**Bangladesh Faces Afghanistan in T20I Series Opener After Asia Cup Disappointment**

Sharjah, UAE – A wounded Bangladesh cricket team, reeling from a disappointing Asia Cup campaign, kicks off a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan today at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The match is scheduled for a 9:00 PM Bangladesh Standard Time start.

The Tigers are struggling with the absence of regular captain Liton Das, who is sidelined with an injury. Soumya Sarkar, his replacement, is facing visa delays and is unlikely to play in the opening match.

“Liton’s absence is a blow, but we must move forward,” said stand-in captain Jaker Ali. He acknowledged the team’s batting woes, a major factor in their Asia Cup failure. “Our main focus is to perform as a batting unit,” he stated.

Despite the setbacks, Jaker expressed optimism, emphasizing the team’s preparedness for the series. “We kept ourselves ready for this series,” he said, highlighting their determination to bounce back. He also pledged to lead from the front, focusing on delivering both as captain and as a player.

Afghanistan, familiar with the Sharjah Stadium as their former adopted home ground, enters the series fresh off a tri-series against UAE and Pakistan. Bangladesh, however, carries the baggage of a recent series loss to the UAE.

“We need to play well on the day,” Jaker acknowledged, addressing their past struggles in the UAE.

**Original Source:** Media New Age Ltd.

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