Shakib could be dismissed by Zampa [AP]
A spirited Bangladesh team will cross swords against Australia in their first Super Eights clash on Friday at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. This game holds significant importance for both sides as they will be keen to get off the mark in the Super Eights standings with a win.
Led by Mitchell Marsh, Australia will start as the obvious favourites, having exhibited supreme form in the group stage.
However, considering the Antigua track's nature to favour spin bowling, they must not underestimate the Tigers, who are capable enough to exploit such conditions.
So, as both teams gear up for a fascinating contest, let's analyse and find out the on-field contests that could pretty well determine the game's outcome.
Shakib Al Hasan vs Adam Zampa
Veteran Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan played a crucial knock against the Netherlands, leading the Tigers' batting chart with a well-compiled 46-ball 64*.
However, the experienced campaigner might face a significant challenge from ace spinner Adam Zampa, who has been Australia's mainstay with the ball in the middle overs.
Shakib Al Hasan vs Adam Zampa (in T20 cricket)
Balls | 52 |
---|---|
Runs | 53 |
Dismissals | 3 |
Average/SR | 17.66/101.92 |
Litton Das vs Mitchell Starc
Starc could be a threat to BAN top order [AP]
Stylish Bangladesh batter Litton Das hasn't been at his best this World Cup, managing only 56 runs in four outings at an abysmal average of 14.
Considering his modest record against left-arm pacers in the powerplay, we reckon Litton might find his nemesis in Mitchell Starc, who can swing the ball up front. Statistically, Starc has dismissed Litton in the only ball he has bowled to him in T20Is.
Litton Das vs left-arm pacers in PP (in T20 cricket)
Runs | 457 |
---|---|
Dismissals | 20 |
Average | 22.85 |
Strike Rate | 116.58 |
Marcus Stoinis vs Mustafizur Rahman
Experienced left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman has weaved magic with the ball, with the batters finding his cutters too hot to handle on the Caribbean pitches.
However, Marcus Stoinis could dominate Rahman with his power-hitting as he has a stellar record against him.
Balls | 21 |
---|---|
Runs | 43 |
Dismissals | 1 |
Average/SR | 43/204.8 |
David Warner vs Shakib Al Hasan
Swashbuckling Australian batter David Warner has utilised his experience to score vital runs for his side in the ongoing T20 World Cup.
But Bangladesh might test Warner up front, with Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Taskin Ahmed performing admirably in the powerplay.
Even if the veteran batter survives the Tigers' new ball burst, Shakib Al Hasan could give him a run for his money, having dismissed him four times in the shortest format.
David Warner vs Shakib Al Hasan (in T20 cricket)
Balls | 36 |
---|---|
Runs | 59 |
Dismissals | 4 |
Average/SR | 14.75/163.88 |