Bangladesh and Papua New Guinea, the two sides at the bottom of Group B, will take on 21 October in a must-win contest at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground. The winner of the fixture will stay in contention for a place in the Super 12 of the Men’s T20 World Cup 2021.
Despite losing their opening two encounters, PNG can still qualify in the next stage of the tournament if they win by a colossal margin. Even after that, Scotland must beat Oman later in the evening.
Bangladesh were almost knocked out of the tournament after being stunned against Scotland in their opening fixture. They seemed nervous against Oman as well less than 48 hours later, but eventually ended up winning by 26 runs.
Mohammad Naim and Shakib Al Hasan starred with bat that night to take Bangladesh to 153 after they opted to bat. Coming to defend, they bowled nine wides in the first two overs, but came back well after that. Mustafizur Rahman led the attack. He was ably supported by Shakib, Mohammad Saifuddin and Mahedi Hasan, and they restricted Oman to 127/9.
PNG staged a better show against Scotland after a disastrous performance against Oman in the curtain-raiser of the tournament. Norman Vanua impressed the most. Chasing 166, PNG were left reeling on 35/5, and then 67/6. Vanua launched a counterattack from there. but did not get the support he needed from the tail. PNG fell 17 short, being bowled out for 148.
Assad Vala and Chad Soper will have a crucial role to play if PNG have to register their maiden World Cup win. Charles Amini, who scored a 26-ball 37 against Oman, will be key as well. They may bring Hiri Hiri for Simon Atai, who wasted both his opportunities.
Bangladesh need to improve their batting in the Powerplay to finish things off with a positive note. With ball, Taskin Ahmed made little impact so far, and will be looking to find his rhythm against PNG.
Likely XIs
Bangladesh: Mahmudullah (c), Nurul Hasan (wk), Liton Das, Mohammad Naim, Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Afif Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman.
Papua New Guinea: Assad Vala (c), Kiplin Doriga (wk), Tony Ura, Lega Siaka, Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Hiri Hiri, Norman Vanua, Chad Soper, Kabua Morea, Nosaina Pokana.
Betway Fantasy Tips
- Shakib was adjudged Player of the Match against Oman for all-round contributions. Appoint him captain again. He rarely disappoints.
- Vala can be an excellent vice-captain pick. He bats at No. 3, and can also chip in with off spin.
- Mustafizur, Soper and Saifuddin are the must-have bowlers in the fantasy XI.
Prediction
Bangladesh should win this one comfortably.
Blitzpools Fantasy XI
Liton Das, Mohammad Naim, Assad Vala (vc), Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mushfiqur Rahim, Charles Amini, Sese Bau, Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Saifuddin, Chad Soper, Mustafizur Rahman.