In a crucial encounter at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on October 31, Wednesday, Pakistan seeks redemption after a string of defeats as they lock horns with Bangladesh.
Both teams are desperate for a win to revive their faltering campaigns, making this clash a must-watch spectacle.
Pakistan’s most recent setback was against South Africa, where they came close to victory but couldn’t cross the finish line. To keep their semi-final hopes alive, Pakistan must secure victory in their remaining three matches.
The root cause of Pakistan’s predicament lies within their inconsistent batting and bowling unit which has faltered on crucial occasions.
The leading run-scorer for Pakistan, Mohammad Rizwan, has been off-colour in the last few matches and needs to step up. Another key contributor, Abdullah Shafique, has been a model of consistency and could play a pivotal role on this surface.
The recent encounter against South Africa showcased the renaissance of Shaheen Afridi, who posed a significant threat with his bowling figures of 3-45. This resurgence is an encouraging sign for Pakistan’s bowling attack, which might exploit the fragile Bangladesh batting lineup.
Mohammad Wasim Jr. and Haris Rauf also exhibited their prowess in the previous game, and they are expected to trouble Bangladesh’s batsmen.
On the other hand, Bangladesh is reeling from a demoralizing loss to the Netherlands, where they were dismissed for just 142 while chasing 230.
Bangladesh’s batting lineup, comprising Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim, and captain Shakib Al Hasan, has failed to deliver when it mattered the most.
Mahmudullah stands out as the most consistent batter for Bangladesh in this tournament. However, his position in the lower order often leaves him to rescue the team with the tailenders.
In terms of bowling, Shoriful Islam has been the standout performer with eight wickets in six innings, while the spin trio of Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Mahedi Hasan have consistently applied pressure and taken crucial wickets.
Considering the conditions at Eden Gardens, the three spinners will pose a formidable challenge to the Pakistani batting unit.
As both teams aim for redemption, the stage is set for a thrilling contest that could determine their future in the competition. Pakistan and Bangladesh will be vying for victory and a chance to breathe life back into their campaigns at this iconic venue.
PAK vs BAN Probable XI
Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Shadab Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Haris Rauf
Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam
