DHAKA: We have observed some discussions about adding pacer Rubel Hossain to team tigers for the second ODI today (Tuesday) sensing the possibility of a little grass cover of the wicket. I, personally, feel that may not be necessary. If the wicket remains grassy and pacy, Mustafiz, Taskin and Mashrafe can exploit it. It is not necessary to bring an additional pacer at the expense of either Mosaddek or Mahmudullah. That will make the batting thinner. If Rubel has to play at all he may replace Taskin. But it will be better staying with the winning combination for the second match at Dambulla.

The pressure is now with the host Sri Lanka after losing two matches in a row – the second test at P Sara Oval Colombo and 1st ODI at Dambulla. They may add an extra pacer. It is for this reason also we must have a longer batting lineup that we had in the first match. If for any reason the top order cannot deliver the early middle order and late order can cover. On a pacy wicket the three pacers, Shakib and Mehedi can provide a winning combination. Would suggest using experienced Mahmudullah’s bowling a bit more. He has a golden arm in breaking a partnership. Bangladesh must go all out in the second match to seal the series. Then in the third match at Colombo planning can be done for achieving series whitewash.

It is not bowling, batting well as a team would be the key here. Tamim, Sabbir, Shakib performed in match one. Mosaddek and Mahmudullah played little cameos. Soumya and Mushfique missed out. Bangladesh may think of playing Mahmudullah at number three and slot Sabbir at six. Mahmudullah needs time to get tuned with the situation and once settled can change gear. Sabbir can blast tiring attack from the onset. In the world cup, Soumya and Mahmudullah batted well in combination. Soumya is also due for characteristic match-winning knock. In any case, two of the four -- Tamim, Shakib, Mushfique and Mahmudullah -- must play longer innings. Soumya, Sabbir, Mosaddek, Mehedi and even Mashrafe would add value. This team is gelling well. Let them continue tweeting.

My fourth sense is telling that Mustafiz will appear with a match winning sensation today. He has awesome skills and he is looking hungry. Taskin is bowling fast and looking furious. Mashrafe remains the enigma as ever. Who has better control with new ball than Mashrafe? Who inspires the team better with a personal example? Who commits more than amazing Mash in every game?

A win today will serve huge to Bangladesh not only in cricket but also in every affair in national life. The farmers will farm better, the fishermen will fish better and workers in mills and factories will work with extra zeal. The nation will get more confident in nation-building endeavor.

It won’t need anything different. The team is in the right groove. Business, as usual, will take them home. Please, let the boys play without any tension.

BDST: 0854 HRS, MAR 28, 2017
SR