DHAKA, Mar 10 (V7N) – Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson expressed confidence about ending the upcoming three‑match ODI series against Bangladesh on a winning note, despite arriving with a relatively inexperienced squad.

The series, beginning March 11 at the Sher‑e‑Bangla National Cricket Stadium, will be the first ODI contest between the two sides in Bangladesh since 2015. Pakistan last toured Dhaka in 2025 for a three‑match T20 series, which they lost 2‑1, while Bangladesh later whitewashed Pakistan in a two‑match Test series on Pakistani soil.

Hesson said Pakistan’s recent ODI successes – defeating South Africa 2‑1 and whitewashing Sri Lanka 3‑0 – have boosted team morale. He noted that the pitch conditions for the ODI series looked “ideal for cricket,” unlike the inconsistent surfaces seen in last year’s T20 series. “We respect Bangladesh, particularly in their own conditions. But this wicket looks a lot better. Both sides will be challenged with the ball as much as with the bat,” he told reporters.

Pakistan has rested several established players, bringing in fresh faces from the Pakistan A team. Hesson said the newcomers are “exciting” and have earned their opportunities. “Our challenge here is adapting quickly. Regardless of conditions, we need to be ready to challenge Bangladesh. Our last two ODI series were exceptional, and this is a chance for new players to step up,” he added.

Meanwhile, match officials for the series were confirmed. Neeyamur Rashid Rahul will serve as match referee for all three games. Elite umpire Kumar Dharmasena will share on‑field duties with Gazi Sohel, Adrian Holdstock, Tanvir Ahmed, Masudur Rahman Mukul, and Morshed Ali Khan across the matches. The ODIs will be played on March 11, 13 and 15, starting at 2:15 pm (BST), all at Sher‑e‑Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

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