The Bangladesh cricket team was in a difficult scenario in which losing versus Afghanistan may have harmed their hopes of progressing, even if they won by a small margin.
In this stressful situation, Mehedi Hasan Miraj batted first, a daring move by Shakib Al Hasan’s squad to use a lower-order hitter as an opener. Fortunately, this risk paid off as Bangladesh easily defeated Afghanistan in the Super Four.
Bangladesh’s next test will be against Pakistan in their first Super Four encounter on Wednesday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Pakistan’s speed attack is stronger than Afghanistan’s, raising concerns about Miraj’s ability to face some of the season’s top fast bowlers.
Miraj stated firmly, “I’m always ready to face any bowler.” His 112-run innings against Afghanistan in a must-win match contributed significantly to Bangladesh’s greatest total in the Asia Cup. Captain Shakib may select him as an opener against Pakistan, where he will face bowlers such as Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah.
Any batter would be nervous facing Shaheen Afridi with the new ball, but Miraj isn’t. “I’m not concerned about any bowler,” he remarked. My goal is to do well in the middle order. However, if the team decides, I’m willing to bat first.”
Bangladesh’s spot in the Super Four is certain, and if Sri Lanka and India advance, Bangladesh will face them again in Colombo. Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have a friendly rivalry known as the “Nagin Dance,” which began with the Nidahas Trophy. “Absolutely,” Miraj says, acknowledging their rivalry. It all started with the Nidahas Trophy, and Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have had a friendly rivalry over it.”
Read also : Sri Lanka qualifies for the Asia Cup Super 4 after defeating Afghanistan in a thrilling match.
