Having started their campaign at the 2019 ICC World Cup in fine manner, the West Indies and Bangladesh were in for some hard reality check as the competition progressed. While the Windies began with a fantastic win over Pakistan, only to lose track against England and Australia, the Bangla Tigers were dealt heavy blows by New Zealand and England after a shock victory over South Africa in their opener. So, when the two face off in Taunton on Monday, a win will be of paramount importance.
The West Indies were like a breath of fresh air in the competition. Banking on their young bowling brigade, the team from the Caribbean surprised the Pakistani batsmen with persistent chin music. Though the Aussies too were on the receiving end of this treatment, a counter punch from an unknown Nathan Courter-Nile had the Windies starching their heads.
Moreover, with their batsmen failing to complement their bowlers, the team led by Jason Holder were made to pay against better opposition. Against Bangladesh, they would be hoping that every department of their team responds to the call. Adding to the woes are injuries to their key players, as Andre Russell and Sheldon Cottrell could bowl only five overs between them before leaving the field on Friday.
Meanwhile, for Bangladesh, their performance so far has revolved around a certain Shakib Al Hasan. The number one all-rounder in the world has been on top of his game, scoring 260 runs and claiming three wickets so far. But unfortunately, he’s been the only performer for them. Their bowling succumbed to the pressure against England, while against the Kiwis, it was their sloppiness in fielding that cost their dear.
On Monday, while the Windies will be hoping to make the most the conditions, Mashrafe Mortaza and his men will be hoping to repeat their heroics from the Tri-nation tournament just ahead of the World Cup when they got the better of the Windies twice. Overall, it promises to be a cracker for a game.
Feature images courtesy: AFP Photo/ Saeed Khan
