Shaken Bangladesh hope to restore pride in last clash

Their epic one-run loss from the jaws of victory against India on Wednesday ended the semi-final hopes of the spirited Bangladesh team as they’re winless from three matches. The Black Caps, who have already sealed a final-four berth, on the other hand, would look to top Group 2 with an all win record as they have emerged from being a ‘lesser team’ to the team to beat in the sixth edition of the World T20. With their contrasting campaigns, Mashrafe Mortaza’s men will seek a consolation win and restore some pride but it remains to be seen whether the Black Caps take their foot off the gas ahead of the knockouts. 

This will be Bangladesh’s second outing of the World Twenty20 at the Eden and the familiar conditions in front of an expected crowd support closer to home would certainly boost the team’s morale after their heart-aching loss to India. Opening their Super 10 campaign here, Bangladesh were handed out a 55-run loss by Pakistan but they raised their standards to scare the mighty Australia and India. Certainly Bangladesh are punching over their weight with their creditable performances against India and Australia and have won the hearts, it’s time that they display some maturity and calm demeanour to win a match. Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah went for  ‘glory’ shots and gifted India the narrow win at Bengaluru.