Bangladesh is up against Pakistan in the first Super Four game of the 2023 Asia Cup. Pakistan performed exceptionally well in the league stage but had a rain-affected match with India.
Bangladesh is riding high on confidence after defeating Afghanistan, but their inconsistency in batting remains a concern. Winning in Pakistan has historically been a challenge for Bangladesh, and they aim to change that.
THE VENUE FOR AFGHANISTAN-SRI LANKA GAME
The match between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
The Lahore pitch is known for its limited bounce and minimal lateral movement, favoring bowlers who can maintain consistent line and length with variations.
Given the pitch’s slower nature, spinners might play a crucial role during the middle overs, with leg-spinners potentially having a greater impact than off-spinners.
Average 1st Inns score: 251
Average 2nd Inns score: 215
TEAM PREVIEW
PAKISTAN
Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, displayed clinical performances in their league matches, beating Nepal and tying with India due to rain interruptions. They have a good track record against Bangladesh and are eager to impress their home crowd.
Pakistan announced their playing XI against Bangladesh Yesterday. Pakistani All Rounder Faheem Ashraf will replace Mohammed Nawaz. This came as a surprise for many Cricket Pundits and Fans.
The opening duo of Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq seeks to perform better, while the middle order relies on Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Agha Salman. Iftikhar Ahmed adds firepower to their batting alongside Shadab Khan and Shaheen Afridi. Their strong pace attack features in-form bowlers like Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, supported by Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf.
PLAYING XI OF PAKISTAN vs BANGLADESH
Babar Azam (c), Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Agha Salman, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf
BANGLADESH
Bangladesh, captained by Shakib al Hasan, rebounded with a strong win against Afghanistan after a shaky start against Sri Lanka. Facing the home team poses a challenge, and Shakib expects a spirited effort from his players.
Litton Das joined the squad for the Super 4 Clash after recovering from his Illness which sidelined him from the group stages and this is a major boost For Bangladeshi Batting Lineup. He is Expected to provide a strong start with Mohammad Naim.
Bangladesh received a big blow along side this good news as well as middle order batsman Najmul Hossain Shanto was ruled out of the Asia Cup with a hamstring Injury.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s impressive middle-order performance will be crucial, along with contributions from Towhid Hridoy and Shamim Hossain. The lower middle order features Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib, and Afif Hossain for added stability.
Bangladesh’s bowling attack faces a formidable task, relying on Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam for early breakthroughs. Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib bring experience to the table and aim to create pressure on the Pakistani batsmen. The team also looks to Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Afif Hossain for their bowling prowess.
EXPECTED XI OF BANGLADESH vs PAKISTAN
Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mohammad Naim, Shamim Hossain, Towhid Hridoy, Litton Das, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
PREDICTION FOR THE GAME:
The hosts are in good form and enjoying a great run in ODIs. They have a strong bowling attack, which will put them ahead of the Bangladeshis in this game.
Pakistan to beat Bangladesh and make a positive start in the Super 4 Stages.
TRIVIA
- Bangladesh have won 4 out of the Last 5 Completed ODI’s Against Pakistan.
- Shaheen Afridi Took a 6-Wicket Haul when he played Against Bangladesh the Last Time