Asia Cup 2018: Discussion points as Bangladesh knock Pakistan out
Bangladesh are all set to face India in the final of the 2018 Asia Cup on September 28. The Tigers roared aloud in a virtual semi-final encounter against Pakistan as Bangladesh knocked them out of the tournament. Batting first, Bangladesh posted 239 on the board and in reply, Pakistan could manage just 202/9. Here are the key discussion points.
Rahim was on top of his game
Senior player Mushfiqur Rahim was, once again, the star player. He looked in great touch as he displayed his experience and calm head. The manner in which, Bangladesh's top run-scorer in the tourney, Rahim rescued the side after a horrific start (12/3) was the key moment. The 144-run stand with Mohammad Mithun changed the momentum. Unfortunately, he was dismissed for 99.
Bangladesh's top order has let down the team
Bangladesh openers have failed in every game of the 2018 Asia Cup. This time they put faith in Soumya Sarkar to take charge, but he failed as well. Without Tamim Iqbal, the unit has been unable to lay a foundation. Against Pakistan, they were reduced to 12/3 in no time. The number three position is also a worry. Liton and Mominul should step up.
Where was Junaid all this time?
Pakistan dropped Mohammad Amir and got in Junaid for this match. The left-handed pacer was top class. Just 19 runs in his 9 overs with 4 wickets to his name, Junaid was on song. His delivery to dismiss Liton is, probably, the ball of the tournament. Junaid also came back strongly, in the end, to get the key wicket of Mahmudullah.
For Pakistan, batting woes continue
Pakistan's biggest problem, in the tourney, was their weak batting line-up. And even yesterday, it was the same old story. A target of 240 should not have been difficult, if a couple of batsmen showed application. Pakistan weren't simply smart with the bat but full credit to Imam-ul-haq, who played a gritty innings of 83. They need to go back and address the issue.
