BAN vs SA: "It As A Very Important Match For Both Sides, But For South Africa This Is A Do-Or-Die Match" - Bangladesh Skipper Shakib Al Hasan Says Ahead Of Proteas Clash

Bangladesh will take on South Africa in the Super 12 clash of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday, October 27. South Africa and Pakistan are vying for the second semi-final spot in Group 2, with India as the group favorite.

Shakib Al Hasan expressed confidence that they could win their next match against South Africa. He said that Bangladesh’s ODI series win over the Proteas earlier this year would give them confidence ahead of the game.

“It is a very important match for both sides, but for South Africa, who would have expected two points from their first game, this is a do-or-die match. They will be under some pressure. We have a win under our belt, and now we will be playing at a ground that normally aids the spinners. The ICC usually tries to produce true wickets in the World Cup so that everyone gets help,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Shakib as saying.

“They have a number of world-class players on their side, but we will try to the best of our ability. We have some good memories against them recently, albeit in another format. It will certainly help us mentally. We want to be clear-minded and enjoy the game. We are hopeful of a big crowd since Sydney has a huge Bangladeshi population,” he added.

The Opening Stand Will Give Us Confidence – Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan is confident that Bangladesh can stop South Africa’s pace attack, especially after openers Soumya Sarkar and Nazmul Hossain Santo made a blistering start against the Netherlands, where the pair added 43 runs for the first wicket in 5.1 overs.

“The opening stand will give us confidence. Both openers were quite positive [against the Netherlands], which was more important than the runs they scored. We should play with more freedom now. We have played against the South African pacers recently. We know what they can do, and we have been successful in ODIs. I think we can counter their plans and have the upper hand,” said the Bangladesh captain.

Taskin Ahmed Has Done Tremendously Well In Last Two Years – Shakib Al Hasan

He praised the Bangladesh pace attack, particularly Taskin Ahmed, who bowled well against the Netherlands. It has been one of the better years for Bangladeshi fast bowlers, having led from the front in wins in New Zealand and South Africa.

“[Taskin] is one of the leaders now after Mashrafe’s exit. He has done tremendously well in the last two years for Bangladesh. He is leading by example. We have a very good fast bowling group in all three formats. I can’t be more proud of how they have improved themselves and come this far, and it is showing in the results. I hope they continue their form in this World Cup.”

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