For the world, a Afghanistan versus Bangladesh Cricket World Cup 2015 contest might be a battle of the 'minnows' but for the teams, the stakes are much higher. While Bangladesh are still trying to justify their 'Test status', Afghanistan, the newbies to the World Cup, are all set to spoil their party. Catch all the live updates from Canberra here. (Afghanistan vs Bangladesh Scorecard | Schedule | Standings)
Afghanistan all set to trouble the big names.
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The Manuka Oval in Canberra will be a full house. Like every sub-continental team, Bangladesh too have a firm support base around the world and those fans would flock in to watch Bangladesh grab the advantage in the opening game. Their recent form has been wobbly and if not for a series win against Zimbabwe, Bangladesh's ODI records would have taken a further dip.
Afghanistan, on the other hand, are the darlings of this World Cup. After some eye-catching performances in the Asia Cup last year, the Afghan team is eyeing big upsets Down Under. An opening game against Bangladesh, provides for the perfect opportunity. Interestingly, in the only meeting between these teams, it was the Afghans who pulled one over the Bangla tigers in the Asia Cup.
Team in Focus: Afghanistan
Afghanistan have made full use of their limited opportunities and have won 24 out of the 45 ODIs that they have featured in. The Afghan team is on a dream odyssey and have nothing to lose. They have come prepared to enjoy their time in the sunshine. However, they aren't mere pushovers. Although, their batting can be a little suspect, their bowling has the required ammunition to trouble most batting line-ups. They have good fast bowlers and an utility spinner in their captain Mohammad Nabi.
However, for Afghanistan, it's all about their spirit. From a war-stricken country to qualify for the World Cup, cricket has acted as a balm on scarred souls. There are in the World Cup to win hearts and a win a Bangladesh, will only enhance their "darling" status.
Team in Focus: Bangladesh
It's been a tough ride for Bangladesh on the international scene. Out of the 294 ODIs that they have played, they have managed to go past the line only 85 times. A few years back, they were at least competitive but now, the Bangla tigers roll over too easy. They have had their moments of glory like beating the mighty Australians but those triumphs have been way too sporadic for a Test playing nation. Talent hasn't been and issue but Bangladesh, over the years, has failed to harness those talents and build a team around them. Even now, in Shakib-al-Hasan they have one of the best all-rounders in the world, but the others around him have not been able to put their hands up.
Against Afghanistan, it's a tricky opener for Bangladesh. A victory is expected but a slip-up will raise further questions about their pedigree and their Test-playing status.
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