Defending champions India are all set to take on an upbeat and improved Bangladesh side in the second quarterfinal of the ICC World Cup 2015 on Thursday at the MCG in Melbourne. The men in blue are high on confidence as they remain unbeaten in the tournament so far. Bangladesh on the other hand have gone through highs and lows to reserve a spot in the knockout stages. Both teams pack quality players and match winners who can turn the game on its head in at any given point of time.
Weather forecast for match day at MCG points towards partly cloudy conditions at start of play. There’s a 70% chance of late afternoon showers and a good breeze of about 30-40 kmph will continue to blow over the region. A reserve day has been scheduled for all the knockout games including the two semi-finals as well as the final.
No changes are expected in the Indian camp. MS Dhoni has already stated that changes will be on need basis and not on experimental basis. The economical and wicket-taking Indian bowlers have been consistent throughout the tournament. India’s batting has also been impressive with the top order piling up runs in almost every game. Moreover, the two games against West Indies and Zimbabwe tested the team’s lower middle order as well. All batsmen have struck form and there’s very little that team India can do to lose this game.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh too have polished their game. The partnerships are coming in, the bowlers are keeping it tight, and the team is looking well-balanced ahead of the all-important game against India. Rubel and Tasqin have done well with the new ball and star all-rounder Shaqib-al-Hasan has played his part perfectly. Mahmudullah’s back to back hundreds along with Mashrafe Mortaza’s return to the squad will further help Bangladesh’s cause.
As rain threat looms large over the second quarter-final, it will be interesting to note what decision the winning captain takes. MS Dhoni would back his batsmen to chase, keeping India’s impressive record while chasing in mind. Mortaza, weary of Duckworth-Lewis coming into play, may also want to chase. Skymet will keep you updated on weather, cricket, and more as the ICC World Cup knockout stages take the passion for the game to another level.
