After a one-sided one-off Test, Zimbabwe and Bangladesh will be up against each other in the first ODI of the three-match series at Harare Sports Club. Bangladesh are placed second in the ICC ODI Super League, while Zimbabwe are at the bottom.
Zimbabwe are already weakened by the absence of Sean Williams and Craig Ervine. The duo missed out on the Test match after coming in close contact with Covid-19 patients. Zimbabwe Cricket has decided not to rush them to the scene.
It was Williams' century that propelled Zimbabwe to a solitary victory in their 1-2 series defeat to Pakistan. Brendan Taylor, the stand-in skipper, has to step up in his absence. Taylor is in a rich vein of form, and was easily the most impressive batter for the hosts in the Test.
Zimbabwe also have a potent weapon in fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani. He will be assisted by Donald Tiripano and Richard Ngarava.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, have some injury issues. Mustafizur Rahman injured his ankle while bowling in the practice game. If he does not make it, Shoriful Islam is likely to get a nod.
Tamim Iqbal missed the Test match due to injury, and there were concerns about his availability for the ODI series. However, he surprised everyone by turning up for the practice match.
Shakib Al Hasan has failed to make substantial returns with bat ever since his comeback. Bangladesh need some runs from him as well as Liton Das, who is going through a lean patch.
Probable XIs
Zimbabwe: Tinashe Kamunhukamwe, Marumani Tadiwanashe, Wesley Madhevere, Brendan Taylor, Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl, Regis Chakabva (wk), Donald Tiripano, Wellington Masakadza, Tendai Chatara, Blessing Muzarabani
Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal (c), Mohammad Naim, Shakib Al Hasan, Liton Das (wk), Mahmudullah, Mosaddek Hossain, Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam
Prediction:
Bangladesh should win this game to go 1-0 up in the series.