Bangladesh has not won a series-deciding match in almost three years. However, coach Phil Simmons’ men want to end that streak against the United Arab Emirates.
As unimportant as the start of the ongoing T20 series against the United Arab Emirates in Sharjah was, the end has become just as important for Bangladesh.
This series was originally planned as part of the preparation for the Pakistan tour. Initially, two matches were scheduled. Later, it was increased to three matches, which has now turned into an unwritten final.
Despite winning the first match of the series, Bangladesh lost the match despite showing flashes with the bat and scoring 205 runs in the second match.
As a result, the three-match series is now tied 1-1. Today (Wednesday), the third and final match of the series has become the stage for a death match. The match will start at 7 pm UAE time, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
This is Liton’s debut series as captain, so he will definitely not want to lose the series. However, history says that Bangladesh’s record in series-deciding matches is not very good.
In the last seven years, the Tigers have won only two such matches—against the West Indies in 2018 and against Zimbabwe in 2021.
Bangladesh has not won a series-deciding match in almost three years. However, coach Phil Simmons’ men want to end that streak against the United Arab Emirates.
And in the interest of this victory, there may be several changes in the playing XI.
Parvez Hossain Emon, who was absent from the previous match due to a leg injury, may return to the team. Hasan Mahmud may be seen in the pace attack. It is known that Bangladesh will field a combination of three pacers and two spinners. Shamim Patwary can retain his place in the playing XI as an all-rounder.
Probable Bangladesh XI: Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanjid Hasan Tamim, Liton Das (captain), Towhid Hridoy, Zaker Ali Anik (wicketkeeper), Shamim Patwary, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Shariful Islam, Nahid Rana.
