New Delhi: The replay of 2016 Asia Cup final, between India and Bangladesh, holds special importance for one fact, that is a negative result could spoil Men in Blue's chances of making the last four. The 2016 edition of World Twenty20 need the host team to go some distance to make it a truly successful tournament.
That being said, there's no denying the fact that Bangladesh are no push overs. The Tigers have been playing the 'bravest' version of cricket possible, taking on the traditional powerhouses. A win for them would make this group of death interesting.
With New Zealand already in the semis, Australia, India and Pakistan are left fighting for the other spot available from Group 2. Yes, Bangladesh themselves are counting themselves on it too.
Here are five players to watch out for:
Virat Kohli: He certainly is now the crowned king of Indian cricket. Captaincy may still rest with Mahendra Singh Dhoni, but Kolhi has became the de facto de force majeure when it comes to performance.
India, will once again, rely heavily on Kohli today against Bangladesh. The batting fortunes of the team will be revolved around the 27-year-old's own fortune. If he does well, India unequivocally will do well. if he fails, there's no guarantee that India will do well. It's like turning the clock back and watching TV, say cricket in the 90's all over again.
Ashish Nehra: The experienced operator has now become a general in his own rights. He knows how to lead a seemingly inexperienced pace bowling attack.
Nehra, all of 36 years, is once again playing cricket, as if he has just made the debut. His bursting spells early in the opposition innings helps nerves settled for the likes of Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.
Suresh Raina: He is the probably the most experienced Twenty20 player, counting on his collective outings in this format of the game. But his performances, at least with the bat, have been a far cry from what he can actually do.
If at all, he has to resurrect his T20 career, the 29-year-old will need an instant crack. And the Bangladesh match is just about perfect setting to announce that he is still a force to reckon with.
Shakib Al Hasan: No other Bangladesh player has the charm and at the same time ability of Shakib Al Hasan. The 28-year-old has been effective with both bat and ball in their two Super 10 matches, but both the times, they failed.
Thus come a greater calling. A performance worthy of winning man of the match, and help the Tigers to a win. This wily all-rounder can be the difference between Bangladesh winning and losing, today, as in many other prior matches.
Mustafizur Rahman: Bangladesh will need their premier bowler to hit form, if at all, they are to beat a confident India. The 20-year-old bowler missed a match due to injury, but he return to make an instant impact, against Australia, taking two wickets.
If the left-arm bowler manages to produce an inspire spell early in India's innings, then the Tigers can hope for an upset.
