The new Asian rivalry
Even a year or two ago, Full Member Zimbabwe and Associate Afghanistan were considered Bangladesh's closest rivals. But slowly and surely, things have started to change. The newest cricket rivalry in town is undoubtedly that of Bangladesh and Pakistan. Whenever the two sides meet each other, a lot of sentiments are exchanged between the fans. The rivalry took on a new dimension last year when the Tigers swept Pakistan in three ODIs and yesterday's Asia Cup Twenty20 clash only added to the excitement.
Tigers brimming with confidence
There has always been a lack of confidence whenever the Tigers faced any big cricketing powerhouse previously. However, it all changed during the Sri Lanka tie last Sunday when the Bangladesh cricketers looked ever so hungry to seal a morale-boosting win. They started from where they had left off in the previous game, making life extremely difficult for the Pakistan batsmen. And in pursuit of 130, a confident and resolute approach saw the Tigers reach their destination with five wickets and as many deliveries in hand.
Change of approach in T20Is
One must give credit to the Tigers head coach Chandika Hathurusingha for changing the mindset of the Bangladesh cricketers. The men in red and green first transformed themselves in ODIs last year, defeating established orders like India, Pakistan and South Africa. The Tigers then shifted their gear in the shortest format of the game, overcoming the challenge of Asia Cup and World T20 holders Sri Lanka and sub-continent rival Pakistan. That Bangladesh qualified for the grand finale, irrespective of what happens against India this Sunday, will no doubt boost the cricketers' confidence with the World T20 knocking at the door.