RAJSHAHI, Oct 23, 2025 (BSS) - Excitement is running high in Rajshahi and Bogura as the two venues gear up to host a five-match one-day youth cricket series between Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

The series will kick off at the Shaheed Chandu Stadium in Bogura, where the first two matches are scheduled for October 28 and 31. 

The remaining three matches will be played at the Rajshahi Divisional Stadium on November 3, 6 and 9.

The event marks a major revival for Bogura's Shaheed Chandu Stadium, which is set to host international age-level cricket after a long hiatus - the last international fixture there took place on November 20, 2009.

Speaking to BSS, Rajshahi Venue Manager Saifullah Khan Zem said the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is giving renewed focus to both Rajshahi and Bogura venues, with future plans also considering the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

"The Rajshahi venue has been fully prepared to host the under-19 international series between Bangladesh and Afghanistan," Zem said. 

"After this series, our youth team will participate in the Asia Cup in Nepal in December, followed by a tour of Zimbabwe in January 2026, and then the ICC Under-19 World Cup in Namibia," he added.

The announcement has sparked enthusiasm among local residents, who are eager to see international cricket return to their city.

Milon Hossain, 30, a resident of Sadhurmore, said, "Events like this should be organized more often to inspire young people to take up sports."

Another local, Shaheen Mian, 35, from Upashahar, added, "The spread of drugs is a serious concern for our youth. Sports can help build a healthy and disciplined society - that's why more tournaments like this are essential."