Despite a heavy defeat against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh still can play the final of the tri-nation ODI series in United Arab Emirates if some equation favours them. 

Bangladesh’s fate now partly depends on the outcome of the Zimbabwe-Afghanistan match, which is scheduled to be held tomorrow (Monday).

The simplest route for Bangladesh would be for Zimbabwe to beat Afghanistan in their second fixture. If it happens, it will secure Zimbabwe’s place in the final and leave Bangladesh and Afghanistan to compete for the remaining spot in their match in Sharjah on October 21.

In that case, Afghanistan vs Bangladesh match  would effectively become a virtual semifinal, with Bangladesh needing a victory to keep their campaign alive.

However, an Afghanistan victory over Zimbabwe would complicate Bangladesh’s qualification prospects. In that scenario, Bangladesh would not only need to defeat Afghanistan but could also have to rely on net run rate to determine their place in the final.

Bangladesh suffered a crushing 99-run defeat to Zimbabwe in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, leaving them in a difficult position in the three-team tournament. Chasing a target of 272, Bangladesh were bowled out for 172, with their net run rate dropping to -1.980.

With each team scheduled to play the other two sides once before the final, Bangladesh have little room for error after losing their opening match. 

Given their current negative net run rate, Bangladesh would likely need a convincing win against Afghanistan to improve their standing. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, have gained a significant advantage after their comprehensive victory over Bangladesh.

The qualification picture will become clearer after Zimbabwe face Afghanistan. Until then, Bangladesh’s best hope is a Zimbabwe victory, which would leave their path to the final more straightforward.