The upcoming match between Pakistan and Bangladesh in the 2023 World Cup may not have unfolded as anticipated at the tournament’s outset. Pakistan, once considered strong contenders for a top-four spot, now find themselves grappling with numerous issues, including the loss of key players like Naseem Shah and lackluster performances from Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf. Internal conflicts, questionable media releases, and the mid-campaign resignation of chief selector Inzamam ul Haq have further destabilized the team. Despite four consecutive losses, Pakistan remains in contention, and their recent improved performance gives them a glimmer of hope.
In contrast, Bangladesh’s trajectory in ODI cricket has been on the rise, with notable achievements in recent years. However, their performance in this World Cup has been lackluster, with the team failing to match their usual exuberance. The impending departure of their iconic captain and potential changes in the coaching staff and squad loom on the horizon. Nevertheless, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) publicly supports the team’s efforts in India.
The contrasting trajectories of the two teams create an intriguing dynamic for the upcoming match. Pakistan faces internal turmoil and inconsistency, while Bangladesh seeks to reignite their form. The match will take place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, where batting first has been the preferred option, with seven of the last eight ODIs at the venue won by the team batting first. The pitch’s behavior also favors pacers, offering an opportunity for bowlers to make an impact.
Key Players and Strategies:
– Imam-ul-Haq has had success against Bangladesh in previous matches, but he has struggled against fast bowling in this tournament. Fakhar Zaman’s return could challenge his position.
– Bangladesh might introduce an extra left-arm spinner, Nasum Ahmed, to target key players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
– Shakib Al Hasan will be eager to leave his mark on the World Cup, especially with the Champions Trophy qualification at stake.
Both teams have much to prove in this match, with Bangladesh seeking to rekindle their prowess and Pakistan aiming to overcome internal challenges. The outcome of this contest will shape their respective journeys in the 2023 World Cup.
Match Details:
– Date and Time: October 31, 14:00 IST
– Location: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Weather and Pitch Conditions:
Expect a sultry afternoon with high humidity (around 60%). Historically, the team batting first has enjoyed an advantage at Eden Gardens, with seven of the last eight ODIs being won by the teams batting first. The pitch conditions at Eden Gardens have shown a departure from the recent norm, favoring pacers. In a previous match, it displayed a two-paced nature, providing assistance to bowlers, notably to the lanky Paul van Meekeren.
Team Updates:
Pakistan:
– If Shadab Khan shows symptoms of his concussion, Usama Mir is expected to retain his place in the team.
Tactics and Strategy:
– Imam-ul-Haq has performed well against Bangladesh in past encounters, but he has struggled against fast bowling in this tournament, with a high number of dot balls and dismissals by fast bowlers. Fakhar Zaman, who is now fit, might challenge Imam-ul-Haq for a spot in the playing XI.
Probable Playing XI:
- Abdullah Shafique
- Imam-ul-Haq/Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam (c)
- Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
- Saud Shakeel
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Shadab Khan/Usama Mir
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shaheen Afridi
- Mohammad Wasim Jr
- Haris Rauf
Bangladesh:
– Bangladesh may consider including an extra left-arm spinner, Nasum Ahmed, to target key middle-order players like Babar and Rizwan.
Tactics and Strategy:
– Shakib Al Hasan has had success against Mohammad Rizwan in ODIs, dismissing him twice in the 49 balls he has bowled to him. Shakib, the experienced Bangladesh captain, aims to leave his mark, especially with a Champions Trophy qualification at stake.
Probable Playing XI:
- Litton Das
- Tanzid Hasan
- Najmul Hossain Shanto
- Shakib Al Hasan (c)
- Mushfiqur Rahim (wk)
- Mahmudullah
- Mehidy Hasan
- Mahedi Hasan/Nasum Ahmed
- Taskin Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Shoriful Islam
