Afghanistan to Host Bangladesh and Zimbabwe in Exciting Multi-Format Cricket Series

Afghanistan is set to host a thrilling multi-format cricket series in the UAE, featuring Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. The schedule includes a one-off Test, an ODI Tri-Nation Series, and T20I matches, culminating in a two-Test series. Cricket boards from all three nations express excitement over the competitive opportunities this series presents for players and fans alike. The action begins on October 9, promising an exciting period of international cricket. Stay tuned for the full schedule and insights into this highly anticipated series.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 8, 2026, 17:55 IST

Overview of the Upcoming Cricket Series

Afghanistan is gearing up for an extensive multi-format cricket schedule in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), featuring matches against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe throughout October and November. This series will include a one-off Test match against Bangladesh, an ODI Tri-Nation Series with all three teams, followed by a three-match T20I series and a two-Test series against Zimbabwe.

Match Schedule

The series kicks off with Afghanistan facing Bangladesh in a one-off Test from October 9 to 13. Following this, the ODI Tri-Nation Series will take place from October 17 to 23. Zimbabwe will start their campaign against Bangladesh on October 17, followed by a match against Afghanistan on October 19. The final league match will see Afghanistan and Bangladesh compete on October 21, with the top two teams advancing to the final on October 23.

T20I and Test Series Details

After the ODI series, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe will engage in a three-match T20I series from October 27 to November 1. The tour will conclude with a two-Test series scheduled for November 5-9 and November 13-17.

Reactions from Cricket Boards

Naseeb Khan, CEO of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), expressed enthusiasm about the schedule, emphasizing the significance of competing against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe in various formats. He noted that this series will provide essential competitive experience for Afghan players and an exciting spectacle for fans.

Nizam Uddin Chowdhury, CEO of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), shared his excitement for the upcoming tour, particularly the Test match, which will allow players to gain valuable experience in red-ball cricket in the UAE against a strong Afghanistan team.

Givemore Makoni, Managing Director of Zimbabwe Cricket, highlighted the importance of this tour for Zimbabwe's development, stating that it offers high-quality competition across all formats, especially the ODI tri-series and the two Tests.

Detailed Schedule of the Series

One-off Test

9-13 October: Afghanistan vs Bangladesh

ODI Tri-Nation Series

17 October: Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe

19 October: Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe

21 October: Afghanistan vs Bangladesh

23 October: Final

Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe T20I Series

27 October: First T20I

29 October: Second T20I

1 November: Third T20I

Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe Test Series

5-9 November: First Test

13-17 November: Second Test