Hosts look to capitalize on the absence of key Australian stars as three-match ODI series begins in Dhaka.
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DHAKA: Mehidy Hasan Miraz believes Bangladesh have a strong chance to challenge Australia in the upcoming ODI series, with the visitors missing several key players.
The three-match series begins on Tuesday in Dhaka, where Bangladesh will aim to improve a poor record against Australia national cricket team, having won only one of their previous 22 ODIs against the side.
Mehidy said Bangladesh enter the series with confidence after recent ODI series victories over West Indies cricket team, Pakistan national cricket team and New Zealand national cricket team.
The hosts are also expected to benefit from familiar home conditions at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Australia will be without captain Mitchell Marsh and star batter Travis Head. Marsh is recovering from an ankle injury, while Head has been granted personal leave.
In their absence, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis will lead the Australian side.
Inglis acknowledged that missing senior players is a setback but said the tour provides an opportunity for younger players to gain valuable international experience ahead of future global tournaments.
Australia have also lost leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha due to a hamstring injury. Off-spinner Todd Murphy has been added to the squad as his replacement.
Both captains identified Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain as a player who could play a decisive role in the series.
Australia are expected to rely on a mix of experienced and emerging players, while Bangladesh hope their recent form and home advantage can help produce a rare series victory over one of world cricket’s strongest teams.
The ODI series will be played on June 9, 11 and 14, followed by a three-match T20I series between the two teams.
