Dismal Mustafizur’s form was raising anxiety, the lack of consistency in the opening partner of Tamim Iqbal was also another reason of Bangladesh’s headache before World Cup. However, Mustafizur finally made amends and Soumya Sarkar’s return to form came as a relief for Tigers. Mohammad Saifuddin’s consistent fiery death over bowling is keeping experience campaigner like Rubel Hossain out of the squad. Mehedy Hassan Miraj also added a lot of depth in spin with Shakib Al Hasan. That's why not only winning form in the tri-nation series in Ireland is a reason of relief, but rectifying the weaknesses also brought a relief of fresh air in the Tigers camp.
Mustafiz suffered a lot in the New Zealand series. In Ireland, the first match was the same. The team's best bowling gun’s misfiring was definitely causing concern for the team in the World Cup. However, in the last match against the West Indies, Fizz’s four-for returned a smile in his face.
Who will be the partner of Tamim Iqbal in the World Cup? Soumya Sarkar or Liton Das? Both are aggressive and both also have lack of consistency. Soumya can think he has the edge, after scoring two fifty’s in two matches he played. His manner of batting was also aggressive in nature.
Bangladesh have one more match against Ireland today (Wednesday) before they take on the final of the three-nation tournament. As team’s main concerns have now reduced, selectors might bring significant changes in the squad for today’s match, to find out more options for the team.
Basically, the result of this tournament was not only what Bangladesh want from this tourney. The goal was to find right team combinations for the World Cup. It now seems Mashrafe Bin Mortaza’s troops have found answers.
Tamim will start batting with Soumya, as at the moment it looks to be the perfect opening duo. Soumya also has the edge for his medium pacer bowling capability. Shakib will likely play at No. 3, Liton Das is the alternative opener. Then Mushfiqur Rahim, Mohammad Mithun, Mahmudullah Riyad, Sabbir Rahman will come one after another. Miraz has been bowling with a wonderful partnership with Shakib in Ireland. However, Irish wickets are a bit slow; his test will be harder in England. Mosaddek Hossain Saikat will be there as his alternative.
Mustafiz and Saifuddin with captain Mashrafe are ahead of others in pace bowling department. Pace bowler like Rubel Hossain is sitting on the bench; Saifuddin will have to perform consistently to keep him out. However, Abu Jayed Rahi's place as a substitute paceman is still shaky.
He could not prove himself very much in the inaugural match. Taskin Ahmed can slot in for him.
Before going to the World Cup, it is possible to say that Bangladesh have found a preferred combination for the time being. Who is playing, whose role is what, and players in the remaining matches will try to work on their
shortcomings. There is also a chance to improve on players’ role in the team.
