World Cup 2023, PAK vs BAN: Bangladesh Opt To Bat As Pakistan’s Semi-Final Hopes Hang By Thread

Kolkata: Both Bangladesh and Pakistan are struggling in the 2023 World Cup, coming off a streak of losses, creating a dismal scenario on and off the field, thereby leaving their fans disheartened.

Bangladesh’s campaign began with optimism after a decent Asia Cup performance and a strong warm-up win against Sri Lanka. However, they have failed to secure a victory in their last five games, culminating in a disappointing loss to the Netherlands that knocked them out of semi-final contention.

Pakistan, on the other hand, started with two wins, but subsequent losses have exposed their weaknesses. Injuries and a loss of form have left a team that was recently ranked number one unrecognizable.

Despite their troubles, both teams have something to fight for. The ICC’s late announcement that the top eight finishers in this World Cup will qualify for the 2025 Champions Trophy has given Bangladesh a glimmer of hope, while Pakistan can still make it through if they win their remaining games and New Zealand falters.

In a challenging environment, Pakistan faces Bangladesh with the hope of salvaging their World Cup campaign. With questions surrounding their captaincy and issues back at the cricket board, a strong performance is their best chance to keep their dreams alive.

Playing XIs

Bangladesh: Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan(c), Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Mahmudullah, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam

Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam(c), Mohammad Rizwan(w), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Agha Salman, Shaheen Afridi, Usama Mir, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Haris Rauf