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The Asia Cup 2023 might have reached its final league game, but there's still plenty at stake as India faces Bangladesh in a contest that could significantly impact the momentum leading up to the upcoming T20 World Cup. While India has already booked its place in the Asia Cup final, Bangladesh, with nothing to lose, will be eager to make a statement against their familiar rivals.
Bangladesh's Batting Woes
Bangladesh's campaign in this tournament has been marked by inconsistent performances with the bat. Apart from their impressive win against Afghanistan, the Bangladeshi batsmen have struggled to find their rhythm. Injuries have also hampered their progress, and with the pressure off, Bangladesh will be looking to express themselves fully and remind everyone of their destructive potential.
However, Bangladesh will have to navigate this match without the services of Mushfiqur Rahim, who has returned home for personal reasons. The responsibility now falls on Litton Das and captain Shakib Al Hasan to anchor the innings. The role of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who has opened in previous games, will also be interesting to watch.
India's In-Form Bowling Attack
India, on the other hand, comes into this game with an in-form bowling attack that has defended back-to-back totals in contrasting conditions. The seamers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, have been particularly incisive. However, with a spot in the final secured, India might opt to rest their spearhead, possibly giving Mohammed Shami a chance. The inclusion of Shardul Thakur will depend on pitch conditions.
In terms of batting, India boasts a well-stocked lineup. Each of their top six batters has played substantial knocks in this tournament. With runs under their belts, there might be some tinkering in the lineup, including the idea of promoting Ravindra Jadeja to provide him with valuable time in the middle.
Bangladesh's Bowling Challenge
Bangladesh's bowling has been solid without being exceptional. The team has often found themselves playing catch-up in the Asia Cup, and if they get the opportunity to bowl first against India, they will need to make early inroads. Bowlers like Shoriful Islam and Taskin Ahmed would aim to exploit any early movement in the pitch, while Nasum Ahmed, who impressed with his left-arm spin, could also be a key asset.
Rain Threat Looms
As for the weather, Sri Lanka's post-monsoon period is often characterized by rain. Unfortunately, more rain is expected on matchday, potentially leading to a stop-start contest. The pitch is traditionally slow with some turn, but the weather could alter conditions, allowing for extravagant seam movement.
Dead Rubber with Purpose
While this match might technically be a "dead rubber" with India already through to the final and Bangladesh eliminated, it serves as a platform for both sides to test their fringe players. Bangladesh, in particular, is yet to finalize its World Cup squad, making this game crucial for players on the bubble. India, too, would want their backup players to get valuable game time.
Although this is officially a dead rubber, don't expect a lackluster contest. With a World Cup clash between these two teams on the horizon, both India and Bangladesh will be keen to gain the upper hand and build momentum. India holds the edge, but Bangladesh, with nothing to lose, will be eager to pull off an upset and send a message to their formidable rivals. Expect another exciting encounter as the Asia Cup 2023 heads towards its grand finale.
Here are some intriguing statistics to consider:
- Taskin Ahmed has emerged as Bangladesh's most prolific wicket-taker in 2023, snaring an impressive tally of 21 wickets from 10 innings. Remarkably, he has managed to take two or more wickets in six different instances during this period.
- Rohit Sharma, the formidable Indian opener, has been a dominant force when facing Bangladesh in multi-national tournaments. His recent five innings against them have yielded impressive scores of 137, 123*, 83*, 48, and 104.
Teams:
INDIA:
Probable XI: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(wk), Tilak Varma/Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel/Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj
Bangladesh:
Probable XI: Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mohammed Naim/Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das(wk), Shakib Al Hasan(c), Towhid Hridoy, Afif Hossain, Shamim Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud
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