These matches could either both be very close, or very one sided. It depends on whether the real Pakistan turn up and what the Bangladeshi mindset is. If Pakistan play to their potential, then Zimbabwe will be no match for them. Pakistan should at least show more application and determination than in their last two matches, given the circumstances. Not only does this game represent a tribute to Bob Woolmer, but also to the captaincy of Inzamam-ul-Haq, who stands down after this match. The pressure is off now that they are already out and we will hopefully see a freeflowing Pakistan. Shahid Afridi is back and stand-in coach Mushtaq Ahmed will undoubtedly be seeking a big innings from the talismanic big hitter.
Sri Lanka know that they face a good game against Bangladesh tomorrow and they should be prepared for it. Bangladesh meanwhile must be careful that they do not get carried away and start playing too many shots. If they play as they did against India then they will run Sri Lanka close. Young wicket keeper Mushfiqur Rahim looks a splendid addition to the side and he is a situation player, who has a remarkably cool head for such a tender age. Meanwhile, the bowling looks reasonably strong with Mashrafe Mortaza, Syed Rasel, Rafique and Abdur Razzaq and Sri Lanka will need to play the middle overs well. In Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara and Marvan Atappatu though, they have one of the best, if not the best, middle orders in international cricket.
Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka:
Prediction: Sri Lanka to show their title credentials.
Players to watch: Mahela Jayawardene and Mushfiqur Rahim.
Pakistan vs Zimbabwe:
Prediction: Pakistan to sign off with a victory, for Bob and for Inzy.
Players to watch: Inzamam-ul-Haq and Sean Williams.
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3 comments:
The Sri Lanka/Bangladesh match could be a very interesting one. Sri Lanka has to win at all costs because they face India next and you don't want to go and play India needing a victory.
Pressure all on India now while the neutral probably wishes to see Bangladesh squeeze through - it would be an incredible achievement although judging by today's thrashing, they are some way off consistently being able to at least stay with the better sides throughout the 100 overs.
PS I don't think it is much of a surprise that Bob Woolmer's death is a 'suspicious' one. It was my original inclination that it was too indcidental for the loss to Ireland and his death to happen so close to each other, and as Tim mentions in his earlier post, the likes of Pakistan fans have been overzealous in the past with their treatment of the game and in dealing with losses. It is nevertheless incredible that some one would go to such drastic lengths because of one tournament. A sickening thought.
It would indeed be sickening to think anyone could be killed over what is just a game.
Sri Lanka vs India is going to decide Bangladesh's and India's fate and I don't think the Sri Lankans will be in a forgiving mood given that if India win Sri Lanka will progress to the Super Eights with no points. What a cracker!
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