In the 43rd match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Bangladesh (BAN) is set to take on Australia (AUS) this Saturday at Pune’s Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Bangladesh’s performance in the tournament has been far from impressive, managing just two wins and finding themselves languishing in the lower ranks. Sadly, they were the first team to exit the competition. Now, in their final match of the tournament, they will cross bats with the formidable Australian side.
The upcoming clash poses a formidable challenge for Bangladesh, especially in the absence of Shakib Al Hasan. Yet, it’s a must-win encounter, carrying the weight of their last opportunity to secure a spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, slated to be played in Pakistan. With Sri Lanka already out of the automatic selection equation, Bangladesh sees this match as a turning point to reshape their fortunes and clinch that coveted Champions Trophy berth.
Here’s Bangladesh’s Predicted XI against Australia:
Openers: Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das
Litton Das. (Photo Source: MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)
Tanzid Hasan’s performance in the tournament has been a letdown for Bangladesh, especially at the top order. Tasked with filling Tamim Iqbal’s shoes, he’s struggled, amassing just 109 runs across eight innings. It’s now imperative for him to step up, as there’s no room for further disappointment – a pivotal moment to prove his mettle on the cricketing stage awaits.
Litton Das has had a commendable run in the tournament, tallying 248 runs at an average of 31, including two half-centuries. Despite his efforts, support from the top order has been lacking. Das is an aggressive, free-flowing batter, known for taking on bowlers. He’s undoubtedly eager to leave a lasting impact in his team’s final showdown this Saturday.
Middle Order: Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mushfiqur Rahim (WK), Towhid Hridoy
Shanto baby celebration. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Najmul Hossain Shanto broke free from a series of underwhelming performances with a commanding 90-run innings that secured a crucial victory against Sri Lanka in the previous match. In the absence of Shakib Al Hasan, Shanto is entrusted with the captaincy duties for Saturday’s encounter. Buoyed by his recent spectacular display, he approaches the role with newfound confidence, determined to lead from the front.
Mushfiqur Rahim’s underwhelming performance has been a significant factor in Bangladesh’s batting woes this tournament. With 181 runs at a subpar average of 25.85, his struggles are evident. As the team’s most seasoned campaigner, Rahim must shoulder additional responsibility, especially with Shakib’s absence. It’s imperative for him to anchor the innings, instill resilience, and reignite his team’s competitive spirit.
Check Here: Most Runs in ODI World Cup 2023
Towhid Hridoy has fallen short of expectations, managing only 90 runs in five innings. Despite this, his potential as a lower-order batter is recognized by the team, which is why he retains his spot. Hridoy has recently displayed promising form, and he’s eager to contribute significantly with the bat against Australia. A noteworthy performance in this match would undoubtedly boost his confidence for future encounters.
All-rounders: Mahmudullah, Mehidy Hasan Miraz
Mahmudullah Riyad. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
Mahmudullah has been a standout performer in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, emerging as Bangladesh’s top run-scorer with an impressive tally of 296 runs at an average of 59.20. Notably, he’s delivered crucial runs when the top order faltered. With Shakib absent, Mahmudullah’s role assumes greater significance, as his experience against the opposition becomes pivotal, and he’s expected to shoulder added responsibilities.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz is the one to keep a keen eye on, renowned as a game-changer both with the bat and ball. Given Shakib’s absence, he’s anticipated to take on a more prominent role in the batting lineup. Additionally, his prowess as a wicket-taker during the middle overs becomes pivotal, especially with the turning conditions expected in Pune. Miraz has contributed significantly with 172 runs and ten wickets, cementing his value to the team.
Bowlers: Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam
Taskin Ahmed. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Tanzim Hasan Sakib, in his recent ODI World Cup debut against Sri Lanka, made a strong impact by claiming three crucial wickets, dispelling any doubts about his omission from previous matches. As a shrewd and consistent bowler who maintains a good line and length, he’s set to assume the role of the new ball bowler. His primary objective will be to dismantle Australia’s top-order batting lineup, a task he’s well-prepared for.
Nasum Ahmed has remained wicketless in the ongoing tournament, but his remarkable 44-run innings against India in the 2023 Asia Cup earned him acclaim for his batting prowess. It’s evident that he possesses the ability to be a handy lower-order batter with boundary-clearing skills. Nasum’s bowling potential is still evolving as he continues to establish himself on the cricketing scene, making him a possible inclusion in the lineup against Australia on Saturday, November 11.
Also Check: Most Wickets in ODI World Cup 2023
Taskin Ahmed, despite his outstanding bowling performances in recent years, has faced a significant downturn in this tournament, managing just four wickets. This struggle aligns with the team’s overall bowling woes. However, he’s determined to conclude the tournament on a high note and, importantly, aid his team’s quest for a place in the Champions Trophy. Taskin’s aspirations now hinge on a strong performance in the upcoming match.
Shoriful Islam’s impressive performance positions him as a potential menace to Australia. With 10 wickets to his name, most notably during the powerplay, he poses a significant threat. His ability to extract considerable swing with the new ball is a key asset, and should he deliver another formidable spell on Saturday, Australia will undoubtedly find themselves in a challenging situation.
Bangladesh’s Predicted XI:
Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam