On 31 August 2023, Bangladesh suffered a five-wicket loss against Sri Lanka in the second game of the Asia Cup in Pallekele. Now, they will be in action against Afghanistan on 3 September in Gaddafi Stadium. But, ahead of this clash, they might look to make some tactical changes in the playing XI as another loss will ensure their exit from the tournament.
Here are the three tactical changes Bangladesh need to make following their defeat to Sri Lanka
Full utilisation of bowlers
Shakib Al Hasan looked out of thoughts when it came to the utilisation of all bowlers properly. On a spinning-friendly condition, Mehidy Hasan Miraz bowled only five overs. While Mustafizur Rahman only bowled three overs and conceded just 12 runs without a single wicket. In the first 10 overs, he bowled only one over while his next two came during the 18th and 20th overs. So, such decisions did not go well for him and the fans as they failed to defend the 165-run target despite taking three early wickets for 43 runs.
Change in the batting order
Bangladesh batters were horrible while tackling the Lankan bowlers and hence, they can look for changes in the batting line-up. Shakib Al Hasan came out to bat at number four while Towrid Hridoy came at number five and Mushfiqur Rahman came at number six. But, they can use Rahim at number four as his average is 42.39, including eight centuries. While at number five, Shakib averages 35.55, including five centuries more than at number four. Hridoy has been good at number five but if quick wickets fall again, the experience of both Musfiqur and Shakib at number four and five will be handy.
Add another spinner in place of a pacer
Bangladesh went with six bowling options in this game including three pacers and three spinners. But, the pitch was found slowish and the balls were seen turning a bit also. Their batters also failed to score freely against Sri Lanka’s spinners. Against three spinners, they scored just 84 runs in 25 overs for four wickets. While Bangladesh’s three spinners conceded 90 runs in 25 overs with three wickets. Three pacers bowled 14 overs and grabbed two wickets for 69 runs. So, they can try to add another spinning option; Nasum Ahmed instead of Shoriful Islam as Mustafizur Rahman is already there in the lineup as a left-arm pace bowling option. Nasum has eight wickets in six ODI innings so far, at an economy of 3.73.