Bangladesh hopes to bat better against Afghanistan in a match that is important
When Bangladesh plays Afghanistan in its second Group B encounter of the Asia Cup, which it must win, here on Sunday, it will look to captain Shakib Al Hasan for motivation to put forth a significantly improved batting effort.Bangladesh's tournament debut against Sri Lanka at Pallekele was marred by a subpar batting effort as it could only muster 164 after electing to bat.No other Bangladeshi batsman could provide significant runs to back him up, with the exception of Najmul Hossain Shanto, who was the lone warrior with an 89 off 122 balls.The skilled Shakib was anticipated to deliver much, but he fell short.But on Sunday, Shakib will have to assume responsibility and lead Bangladesh's middle order. Having said that, Bangladesh would need a solid start from the young openers Mohammad Naim and Tanzid Hasan.Shakib must share the load with veteran wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim.Taskin Ahmed appeared to bowl well, while Shoriful Islam lacked sting. Shakib, on the other hand, was spot-on with the ball, taking two wickets for 29 runs off of his 10 overs, and he would like to keep up the pace.It was a herculean challenge for Bangladesh's bowlers to defend such a small total against the Lankans, as Mustafizur Rahman, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Mahedi Hasan failed to muster the necessary ferocity.