Match Details
The much-anticipated clash between Pakistan and Bangladesh is set to take place on Tuesday, 31st October at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Historical Overview
In their recent cricketing history, Pakistan and Bangladesh have faced each other only once in an ODI since the last ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The encounter saw Babar Azam’s team secure a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup.
Interestingly, Pakistan also emerged victorious in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, snapping Bangladesh’s four-match winning streak. However, Bangladesh has managed to secure five wins in 38 ODIs against Pakistan, a team that has largely dominated the head-to-head encounters.
Current Scenario
With their World Cup campaign teetering on the edge after four consecutive losses, Pakistan, the 1992 champions, are in a do-or-die situation. They need to win all their remaining matches and hope for favorable outcomes in other games to keep their knockout stage dreams alive.
On the other hand, Bangladesh, despite starting the World Cup on a high note with a win over Afghanistan, have failed to maintain the momentum and are currently languishing at the ninth position in the standings.
With both teams desperate to revive their campaigns, the upcoming clash promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Team Line-ups
Pakistan Squad:
Babar Azam (c), Shadab Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Wasim.
Bangladesh Squad:
Shakib Al Hasan (c), Litton Kumer Das, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto (vc), Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
Players to Watch Out For
Pakistan – Mohammad Rizwan
Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s star wicketkeeper-batsman, has been the team’s most reliable performer in the World Cup. With a quick fifty and an unbeaten century to his name, Rizwan’s form will be crucial for Pakistan’s comeback in the tournament.
Bangladesh – Shoriful Islam
Shoriful Islam, the 22-year-old left-arm pacer, is one of Bangladesh’s promising talents. Despite his youthful exuberance, Shoriful has managed to bag eight wickets in six matches. His performance could be a game-changer for Bangladesh in their quest for a second win in the tournament.