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The Asia Cup 2023 promises to be a thrilling cricketing spectacle, set to commence in Pakistan on August 30 and conclude with the final match in Sri Lanka on September 17. This edition of the tournament has opted for the One-Day International (ODI) format, a return to tradition that adds a unique flavor to the competition. The last time Asia Cup featured ODIs was in 2018, when India emerged as the champions.
Pakistan and Sri Lanka have taken up the responsibility of hosting this continental event, and interestingly, India will be playing their games in Sri Lanka. The presence of six competitive teams will create an intense battle for the coveted trophy, with a total of 13 fixtures scheduled throughout the tournament.
The tournament structure consists of three key stages: the group stage, super fours and the final. In the group stage, teams from Groups A and B will compete fiercely, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the super fours stage. From the super fours, the top two teams will earn the right to compete in the final, where the ultimate champion will be crowned.
Also READ: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023
Bangladesh‘s journey in the Asia Cup 2023 is set to begin with a compelling clash against Sri Lanka on August 31 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka. This opening encounter will set the tone for Bangladesh‘s campaign in the tournament, and fans from both nations will be eagerly awaiting this exciting fixture.
As the group stage unfolds, Bangladesh’s last match in this stage is scheduled to be against Afghanistan on September 3. This crucial showdown will take place at the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan.
Bangladesh’s optimal XI for the high-stakes Asia Cup 2023
At the top of the batting order, Litton Das stands as the linchpin. He’s not only one of Bangladesh’s most prolific run-scorer but also a player with a wealth of experience in international cricket. Litton’s ability to anchor the innings and provide stability at the opening position is crucial for Bangladesh’s success in limited-overs cricket.
Partnering Tamim at the top is the young and dynamic Naim Sheikh. Naim has showcased his potential to provide explosive starts and set the tempo early in the innings. His aggressive approach can put pressure on the opposition from the outset.
Moving into the middle order, Najmul Hossain Shanto assumes a significant role. Shanto is known for his ability to build an innings, rotate the strike, and stabilize the innings when the top order faces challenges. He represents the bridge between the top order and the lower middle order.
Batting alongside Shanto is Mushfiqur Rahim, who takes on the crucial role of wicketkeeper-batter. Mushfiqur’s experience and composure under pressure make him a vital asset in the middle order. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed provides Bangladesh with a versatile middle-order option.
Afif Hossain and Mehidy Hasan Miraz add an exciting layer to the middle order. Both are talented all-rounders who can contribute significantly with both bat and ball. Afif’s dynamism and Miraz’s spin-bowling prowess make them valuable assets in the ODI format.
Leading the team and contributing as a premier all-rounder is Shakib Al Hasan. Shakib’s leadership skills and exceptional all-round abilities make him the heart of the squad. As captain, he brings tactical acumen and vast experience to the table, while his left-arm spin and batting prowess provide versatility.
In the bowling department, Mustafizur Rahman is the pace spearhead. His ability to bowl effective cutters and yorkers makes him a potent force, especially in the death overs. Taskin Ahmed complements Mustafizur with his raw pace and ability to strike early, while the emerging Shoriful Islam brings in the dimension of swing and consistency.
In the spin department, Mahedi Hasan takes the lead with his off-spin. His control in the middle overs can be vital in building pressure on the opposition.
This playing eleven is a balance of experience and youthful exuberance, designed to adapt to various games situations. It possesses the depth in batting, variety in bowling, and all-round capabilities required to compete at the highest level in ODI cricket. While specific team selection may vary based on match conditions and opposition, these players form a formidable core for Bangladesh’s campaign in the Asia Cup 2023.
Bangladesh best XI for the Asia Cup 2023:
Litton Das, Naim Sheikh, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mahedi Hasan.
Bangladesh Asia Cup 2023 squad:
Litton Das, Naim Sheikh, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taskin Ahmed, Hasan Mahmud, Mustafizur Rahman, Ebadot Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Shamim Hossain, Afif Hossain, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Mahedi Hasan, Shoriful Islam.
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