Can Bangladesh beat India in their ICC Champions Trophy encounter on February 20? If you ask former Bangladesh opener Imrul Kayes, the Tigers have a good chance to one-up the reigning T20 World Cup champions at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Jasprit Bumrah’s absence gives Bangladesh a chance?
Out of the eight teams, most think that Bangladesh is the unlikeliest to win the trophy. But they have got the talent and ability to knock a team off the ground. Kayes believes that the absence of Jasprit Bumrah will be the biggest reason why Bangladesh will feel they have a chance to topple the top favourites.
“India is a strong side with a great bowling attack and batting lineup. But Bumrah is not in the squad. We all know what he has done in the last two years for Indian cricket. His absence gives Bangladesh a chance to capitalise,” Kayes told PTI Videos.
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Shami needed at his best
Another weakness that Kayes has identified is the fact that Mohammed Shami isn’t looking at his best. He returned to international cricket last month but hasn’t found his form yet. The rhythm seems to be lacking; that zip he used to get isn’t there. Shami was on fire in the ODI World Cup 2023 and can be a big threat to any team. The issue will be his fitness and rhythm; if he’s unable to be at his physical and mental best, Team India might struggle.
“Shami’s inclusion is big. He may be struggling a bit with fitness right now, but if he finds his rhythm, he will be a big threat for Bangladesh,” Kayes noted.
