Bangladesh’s national cricket team is gearing up for a crucial T20I series against Ireland, which marks the final bilateral series before the T20 World Cup set for February-March next year. The team’s focus will be on their middle order, which has presented consistent challenges and raised concerns ahead of the tournament.
The three-match series kicks off at the Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram on Thursday, with the subsequent matches scheduled for November 29 and December 2. The middle order has been under scrutiny, particularly since Litton Das took over as captain in May, during which nine players have occupied positions four to six in the batting lineup.
Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, and Shamim Hossain have been the prominent figures in the middle order during this period. Hridoy, who once thrilled fans with a solid 58 runs against India in the Asia Cup, has faced difficulties recently, scoring only 52 runs in his last four innings with a strike rate of 88.13. Jaker Ali, a key player who has been under fire from fans for his performance, has averaged just 11 in his last eight innings.
Compounding the situation, Shamim Hossain has been sidelined for the initial matches against Ireland. Both Jaker and Shamim have found themselves batting higher in the order than expected, typically thought of as finishers and faced significant pressure due to their recent performances.
In a bid to resolve the middle-order conundrum, selectors have introduced uncapped player Mahidul Islam for the first two matches against Ireland. Mahidul has a limited international record, having participated in one Test and three ODIs, but has struggled lately, especially evident in his performances at the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he recorded disappointing scores.
Despite these challenges, recent developments offer some optimism. Saif Hassan has stepped into the role of vice-captain and brought fresh energy to the top order, and Litton Das appears to be in commendable form. However, for Bangladesh to improve from their recent 3-0 clean sweep by the West Indies, it is critical that the middle order stabilizes and performs effectively in this impending series against Ireland. The stakes are high as the team aims to build momentum ahead of the World Cup.