ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022News

Ashwin vs Chahal, Pant vs DK: Questions Galore As India Meet Bangladesh

Men in Blue needs to win the Asian battle for the semifinal spot amidst a rain threat in Adelaide

By Nidheesh
India Twitter/@CF Creative

India is approaching the game against Bangladesh with caution. A defeat at the hands of the Asian neighbours may put a mishap to their semifinal chances. Rohit Sharma and his men earlier won the first two games before a fighting loss versus South Africa put them second in Group 2. Bangladesh secured a nail-biting win over a spirited Zimbabwe in the last game, and they have the talent to spoil any team’s party. 

 

Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib Al Hasan have impressive records while playing against India in the past. Bangladesh fans would hope the duo comes good against the Men in Blue yet again in a crucial tie.

Toss could be a key factor, as rain is predicted in Adelaide. If the match is washed out, both teams will get a point apiece, and the last match could become more crucial. 

Adelaide is a happy hunting ground for Men in Blue

Present Indian coach, Rahul Dravid, has a relishing memory at the historic venue. He scored 233 and 72 not out in the 2003 Test against Steve Waugh’s Australia to hand India a prestigious win in the Border-Gavaskar Series. However, in 2020-21, India collapsed in the fourth innings to bundle out for 36 runs. But, later on, a vigorous bunch of youngsters prevailed over the Aussies to bag the series 2-1. 

Bangladesh does not have such fond memories of Down Under. Their exposure is limited as they play more home matches. The absence of experienced Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, and Tamim Iqbal has affected their batting strength. However, as a team of transition, the Tigers may aim to keep up their gritty fight against a dominant India. 

India to play Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal?

Team India is likely to drop Deepak Hooda and R Ashwin, to make way for spinners Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Axar is a decent batter. His accurate bowling is suited to Aussie pitches. Meanwhile, R Ashwin had an off day against South Africa. As a result, Chahal, who has a fine record in Australia, might get the nod ahead for the Bangla clash. It would mean India plays with six bowling options.

Another decision that is to be decided on the match day is about Dinesh Karthik. Indian coach Dravid justified his selection by citing the position at which DK bats on the team. The 37-year-old is nursing an injury, and Rishabh Pant, who has an outstanding track record in Australia, is sitting on the bench. A player like Pant can offer stability and hitting prowess at number 5, believe many experts. 

India and Bangladesh are Asian neighbours. But they enjoy a great rivalry in cricket. Fans may hope for another stunning show between Rohit’s army and Shakib’s fighters.

 

Nidheesh 59 posts

Nidheesh is a sports writer. He writes for a living. Cricket is his favourite sport but he treats all games equally. Cinema, music, internet, books, travelling, and gardening are his other interests.

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