West Indies may have started this T20 World Cup as defending champions, but it seems they may have to pack their bags early.
Losing their first two encounters against England and South Africa, Kieron Pollard-led West Indies have obscured their chances to qualify for the semis. West Indies now face ‘perform or perish’ situation in their next clash against Bangladesh, who are yet to open their account in Super-12 stage. Even Bangladesh have lost their opening games against Sri Lanka and England, driving them hungry for their first win to keep semi-final hopes alive.
West Indies and Bangladesh have clashed 12 times in T20Is with West Indies winning six and Bangladesh winning five whereas one match was washed out. When it comes to T20 World Cups, both teams have contended twice and have secured one win each. But now everything is different from team formations to playing conditions.
West Indies’ batting concerns
West Indies batting lineup is packed with power hitters but they have not been able to fire in unison. In their first game against England, their batters displayed a horrific show with bat and were bundled out for just 55 runs. Their inability to rotate strike, form partnerships after early wickets and overdependence on big shots led to their monumental collapse against the English bowlers.
Against South Africa too, West Indies batters batters failed to capitalise on a good start and managed to post a below par total as wickets fell at regular intervals. Against Bangladesh bowlers, they will be tested again by the likes of Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman. It will be interesting to see if West Indies continue with an out-of-form Lendl Simmons and promote Chris Gayle up the order.
Spinners the game changers
There has been only one match at Sharjah which has turned out to be a high-scoring one. Spinners have been able to contain the batters as the Sharjah wicket has been a bit tacky, barring Bangladesh’s match against Sri Lanka. Even fast bowlers would resort to taking the pace off and bowl few cutters to make batters reach for the ball and miscue. Also, dew will not play an important factor given the timing of the match.
Shakib Al Hasan’s performance
So far, Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been phenomenal with the ball with the exception of the England clash. However, his batting has not impressed and left Bangladesh’s middle order weak. The southpaw has not been able to hit big shots and accelerate in middle overs. The leading wicket-taker in the format will be crucial in Bangladesh’s comeback after two comprehensive losses in first two games.
