Bangladesh’s fast-bowling unit is gearing up for a crucial match against Sri Lanka in the series decider at Chattogram. The ODI series is currently tied at 1-1, and the upcoming match presents an opportunity for Bangladesh’s pace attack to make a significant impact.
The conditions in Chattogram have been challenging for bowlers, particularly due to the presence of dew in the evening games, favoring the chasing side. However, the final ODI is scheduled as a day game, eliminating the dew factor and providing a level playing field for both teams.
Following a disappointing performance in the ODI World Cup in India last year, Bangladesh’s fast bowlers have been striving to regain their form. Despite a setback in the major tournament, they showed improvement during the series in New Zealand in December. Now, they are eager to continue their progress on home soil against Sri Lanka.
However, both teams have been affected by injuries to their pace units. Bangladesh’s Tanzim Hasan Sakib has been ruled out of the third ODI due to a hamstring injury, while Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Madushanka is also sidelined with a similar issue. These absences have forced both teams to consider alternative options for their pace attacks.
In the absence of Madushanka, Sri Lanka’s pace attack will rely on Lahiru Kumara and Pramod Madushan, with the possible inclusion of allrounder Chamika Karunaratne to bolster their bowling lineup. While Sri Lanka’s attack offers variety and depth, the loss of Madushanka’s unique left-arm pace and swing presents a challenge for them.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh is likely to bring back Mustafizur Rahman to complement Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam in the pace department. The home team will aim to capitalize on the conditions at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium and deliver a strong performance to secure the series victory.
As the stage is set for a thrilling contest between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, both teams will look to overcome the obstacles posed by injuries and adapt to the conditions in Chattogram. The outcome of the series decider will hinge significantly on the performance of the pace bowlers, as they seek to make a decisive impact in shaping the result of the crucial match.
