The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 heats up as Bangladesh takes on Nepal in a crucial group stage encounter. The match, scheduled for June 16th at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, promises an exciting clash between two teams with contrasting T20 pedigrees.
Bangladesh, a T20 powerhouse with a formidable batting lineup, will be heavily favored. They boast experienced campaigners like Shakib Al Hasan, Liton Das, and Mushfiqur Rahim, all capable of wreaking havoc on any bowling attack. Their bowling unit, while lacking the express pace of some rivals, possesses a good mix of experience and guile, with the likes of Mustafizur Rahman and Mahedi Hasan Miraz leading the way.
Nepal, on the other hand, enters the fray as underdogs. Yet, they shouldn’t be underestimated. Nepal’s cricket has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, with several young talents emerging. Their spinners, led by the wily Sandeep Lamichhane, can be a real threat on a turning track. Captain Gyanendra Malla and the hard-hitting Aarif Sheikh are capable of providing fireworks with the bat.
Venue, Date, and Time in Bangladesh
Bangladesh will face Nepal in their final Group D fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to know about the match:
Venue: Arnos Vale Ground, St. Vincent
Date: Monday, June 17, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM local time (Bangladesh Time)
Check also: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka t20 Live Online
Bangladesh’s Quest for World Cup Glory
For Bangladesh, the T20 World Cup remains a trophy that eludes them. They have consistently reached the knockout stages but haven’t been able to take the final step. This year, with a well-balanced squad and a hunger for success, the Tigers will be determined to make a deep run in the tournament.
Their recent form in T20s inspires confidence. They secured a convincing series win against Sri Lanka just before the World Cup, showcasing their batting prowess and bowling depth. Openers Liton Das and Soumya Sarkar have been in particularly good touch, providing explosive starts. The middle order, anchored by the ever-reliable Shakib, offers solidity and experience.
The bowling attack, though lacking a genuine tearaway quick, compensates with variety and experience. Mustafizur Rahman’s cutters and slower balls remain a potent weapon, while Mahedi Hasan provides control with his off-spin. The experience of Shakib and the guile of Nasum Ahmed add further depth to the bowling unit.
Nepal: A Team on the Rise
Nepal, despite being underdogs, shouldn’t be written off. Their spinners, particularly Sandeep Lamichhane, can be a real handful on a track that offers some turn. Lamichhane, a world-renowned leg-spinner, has the ability to deceive even the best batsmen with his variations. He’ll be ably supported by the likes of Dipendra Airee and Surya Tamang, who can provide variety and control.
With the bat, Nepal possesses some exciting young talents. Captain Gyanendra Malla is a seasoned campaigner who can anchor the innings. The explosive Aarif Sheikh, known for his big-hitting abilities, can take the bowling attack apart on his day. The experience of Rohit Paudel and the promise of Kushal Bhurtel add depth to the batting lineup.
Key Players to Watch
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Bangladesh:
- Shakib Al Hasan: The experienced all-rounder is the lynchpin of the Bangladesh team. His all-around abilities with bat and ball will be crucial to their success.
- Liton Das: The explosive opener is in red-hot form and can single-handedly dismantle bowling attacks.
- Mustafizur Rahman: The left-arm seamer’s cutters and slower balls can be a game-changer, especially at the death overs.
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Nepal:
- Sandeep Lamichhane: The world-class leg-spinner is Nepal’s biggest weapon. His ability to take wickets and control the run flow will be vital.
- Gyanendra Malla: The skipper’s experience and leadership will be crucial for Nepal’s chances.
- Aarif Sheikh: The hard-hitting batsman can take the game away from the opposition with his aggressive batting.
Match Prediction: A Tight Contest on the Cards
While Bangladesh starts as the clear favorite on paper, Nepal has the potential to cause an upset. The pitch at Arnos Vale can be unpredictable, and if it offers some turn, Nepal’s spinners could pose a real threat.
However, Bangladesh’s batting firepower and experience in big matches should see them through. They are likely to chase down a moderate total comfortably.
Bangladesh Squad:
- Liton Das (wk)
- Tamim Iqbal
- Shakib Al Hasan
- Mushfiqur Rahim
- Mahmudul Hasan Joy
- Afif Hossain
- Mehidy Hasan Miraz
- Nasum Ahmed
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Taskin Ahmed
- Shoriful Islam
- Mohammad Saifuddin
- Najmul Hossain Shanto (c)
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib
Nepal Squad:
- Aasif Sheikh (c)
- Kushal Bhurtel
- Gyanendra Malla
- Aarif Sheikh
- Rohit Paudel
- Dipendra Singh Airee (wk)
- Karan KC
- Sompal Kami
- Sandeep Lamichhane
- Gulshan Dahal
- Kushal Malla
- Bikram Sob
- Lalit Rajbanshi
- Aadil Ansari
How to Watch:
The match is likely to be televised in Bangladesh on channels like Bangla Desh Television (BTv), Gazi TV, and Maasranga Television. You can also check with your local cable or satellite provider for broadcast details.
Bangladesh Vs Nepal Live Streaming
Streaming details are yet to be confirmed, but the match is expected to be streamed live on the official ICC.tv website and app, as well as on the broadcasters’ websites and apps.
**The match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams having a point to prove. Bangladesh will be keen to assert their dominance and begin their World Cup campaign on a winning note. Nepal, on the other hand, will look to pull off a giant-killing performance and announce their arrival on