Litton-led Tigers open tri-series campaign against Zimbabwe 

Bangladesh's preparations for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup enter another important phase when they face Zimbabwe in the opening match of the ODI tri-series in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, with captain Litton Das tasked with building a settled combination for the months ahead.

The tournament, also featuring Afghanistan, offers Bangladesh three competitive matches before the final on October 23. The Tigers will meet Zimbabwe on October 17 and Afghanistan on October 21, with the top two teams advancing to the title decider.

Litton, appointed ODI captain earlier this year with the World Cup in mind, returns to lead a 16-member squad that combines established internationals with players seeking opportunities. Towhid Hridoy has been named vice-captain, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed and Soumya Sarkar provide experience across the batting and bowling departments.

The return of Mustafizur Rahman and Hasan Mahmud strengthens Bangladesh's pace options. Both are back in the squad after being unavailable for the previous ODI series against Zimbabwe in July. Their presence gives the team additional experience as it assesses combinations in UAE conditions.

However, Nahid Rana remains unavailable while recovering from a side strain. His absence removes one of Bangladesh's pace options and places greater emphasis on the fitness and workload management of the available fast bowlers.

Off-spinner Aliss Al Islam is another player to watch after earning his maiden ODI call-up. Having made his T20I debut against Sri Lanka at the Asian Games, he now has an opportunity to push for a role in Bangladesh's 50-over plans. His inclusion adds another option to a spin group that also features Mehidy, Rishad Hossain and Tanvir Islam.

The batting line-up includes Tanzid Hasan, Saif Hassan, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mosaddek Hossain Saikat alongside Litton and Hridoy. The challenge for the team management will be to establish a reliable top order and middle-order balance while giving players meaningful opportunities.

The tri-series is not a World Cup qualifier, but it provides valuable match practice against two teams Bangladesh must take seriously. A strong campaign would offer confidence and clarity as the team continues its longer-term preparations for 2027.